Issued: 1000hrs Friday 16th December 2016
Duty forecaster: Garry Nicholson

Cooler than recently; possibly stormy by Christmas

High pressure in charge over the next few days will bring quiet weather, with some areas of fog likely. By midweek onward, a change will develop as frontal systems move in from the Atlantic, bringing heavy rain to north-western Britain. Toward the Christmas weekend, there is a threat of severe gales developing.

For the weather for the next few days click here

Monday 19/12/16
Staying dry for most, but expect extensive low cloud or fog in some areas, which may persist throughout the day. Weak fronts drifting in from the west may produce a little drizzle. Very little wind overall. A touch of frost in the morning where skies cleared overnight. Daytime temperatures 5 to 9C.
 

Tuesday 20/12/16
A freshening south-westerly breeze is likely to affect north-western Britain & Ireland. Rain arriving in the far north-west. Meanwhile, central & southern regions are more likely to stay dull with light winds and stubborn fog patches for some places. A slight frost first thing in rural areas. Temperatures 4 to 8C.
 

Wednesday 21/12/16
A frontal system is expected be slow moving across the north & west, resulting in a wet day for Scotland and Ireland. For much of England & Wales, it should remain dry with a little sun, but some fog may linger. Later rain may edge into west Wales & north-west England. Breezy, or windy in north. Highs 5 to 10C.
 

Thursday 22/12/16
Timing uncertain, but a belt of rain is expected to move south-east across Britain, fading through the day. Heavy showers will follow into the north & west, which may turn wintry over higher ground. Strong and squally winds. Highs 4 to 9C.

Friday 23/12/16
Confidence of timing remains low. A bright day is possible for many areas, but further rain threatens to move in from the Atlantic, and south-westerly winds may strengthen toward gale force in the west. Highs 4 to 10C.

Christmas Eve 24/12/16
Risk of a deep area of low pressure passing close to the British Isles, resulting in a period of heavy rain and gales. Possible snow on hills in the north. Highs 4 to 9C.