Met Office warns of unsettled weather this week

The Met Office has confirmed that unsettled weather will persist for much of the week, with colder conditions arriving later on.

Low pressure remains dominant, bringing a mix of sunny spells and showers, particularly in southern parts of the UK. Heavy showers and thunderstorms are expected to hit these areas until midweek, with the potential for significant rainfall in a short period.

“It’s possible that some places could see 20-30mm of rain within two to three hours, with a small chance that a few places could receive 40mm," the Met Office warned. 

“Thunderstorms are most likely for south-facing coastal districts, and hail and some strong gusts of wind could accompany the heaviest showers and thunderstorms.”

Tuesday is set for more sunshine and showers, with further heavy rain and thunderstorms likely across central and southern parts of the UK. These areas overlap with regions expected to experience rain on Monday evening, increasing the risk of surface water flooding, particularly on roads. Southeast Scotland and northeast England may see extended periods of heavy rainfall from Tuesday into Wednesday.

Further weather warnings could be issued midweek as rain falls on already saturated ground, though the flood risk should diminish in the following days.

Ex-Hurricane Kirk less of a concern

Forecasters have been monitoring the path of ex-Hurricane Kirk as it moves across the Atlantic. Current projections indicate that it will pass to the south of the UK, bringing heavy rain and strong winds to northern France. While shifts in the storm’s track are still possible, the risk of significant impact on the UK has diminished.

Colder conditions expected later in the week

As the week progresses, the unsettled weather is likely to continue, though rain and showers are expected to become less intense and widespread. However, temperatures are set to drop from Wednesday onwards, marking the arrival of colder conditions across the country.