The Met Office has warned of disruptive weather during the upcoming Easter bank holiday weekend, citing forecasts of widespread rain and a potential “snow bomb” affecting various parts of the UK. Following the wettest 18 months on record in England, with significant flooding impacting multiple areas last month, the continuation of unsettled weather conditions poses further challenges.

Forecasters predict wet weather across the UK for the bank holiday weekend, from Friday 29 March to Monday 1 April, particularly focusing on the southwest where rainfall is more likely. Although temperatures are expected to remain near normal for the time of year, the outlook suggests ongoing wet conditions, with a brief period of milder weather marking the start of spring.

Additionally, WXCharts predicts a 230-mile “snow bomb” hitting the UK, with major cities like Leeds, Manchester, Birmingham, and Cardiff poised to see snowfall. Central Scotland could face heavy snow, potentially up to 10cm per hour in some areas, while London and other cities may experience heavy rain. The Met Office has noted the difficulty in making long-range snow predictions, but the forecast for late March to early April is decidedly unsettled with a mix of rain, snow showers, and strong winds across much of the UK.

Regions such as western and central Scotland are expected to witness significant snow accumulation, with up to 18cm in some parts, while north Wales and northern England will also see snowfall. The weather is predicted to turn progressively colder towards the weekend, with showers possibly turning wintry, especially in the north and west.

Given these conditions, the holiday weekend could see travel disruptions, and those with outdoor plans are advised to keep abreast of weather updates. With a combination of rain, snow, and cold temperatures forecasted, the Met Office encourages residents to take necessary precautions and stay informed about the evolving weather situation.