BBC Weather Monthly Outlook...

[Stuart]

Monday 20 February Published at 10:00

Monthly Outlook

Summary

A mild end to winter

The beginning of February brought some very cold conditions to the country - in particular to England and Wales - due to the Siberian High bringing icy air from eastern Europe. As the high weakened, the winds swung around to the northwest, allowing a milder and often more changeable pattern to take hold.

As we head through the end of February and into the meteorological spring, we continue in a broadly similar theme with the weather often turning quite unsettled but tending to be mild - and this week getting us off to an impressive start temperature-wise.

Monday 20 February—Sunday 26 February

Mild at first but a chillier weekend in store

After a chilly weekend, this week brings much milder weather, particularly around midweek with temperatures reaching the mid- to high-teens. In particular, locations to the east of high ground could see some exceptionally mild values.

Despite the warmth, westerly winds will bring a succession of fronts across the country leading to spells of wet and windy weather, mainly in the north and west. High pressure centred over the continent will tend to weaken these fronts as they move into southeastern areas, leading to a drier picture here. Many eastern areas, and particularly eastern England, will also see below average rainfall due to the 'rain-shadow' effect of high ground, in this case the Pennines.

Towards the end of the week a weather front will start making slow progress from the northwest spreading cooler air across the country for the weekend. We shall see temperatures becoming closer to what we would expect at this time of year with frost returning overnight. Some patchy rain is also likely as this front makes erratic progress southwards with strong winds and showers following in the northwest.

By Sunday the UK will still be under the influence of the cooler airmass, leading to a chilly but fairly bright day in the south with showers affecting the north and west.

Monday 27 February—Sunday 4 March

Spring brings more mild weather

As we make the transition to spring, high pressure remains anchored to the south of the country, with low pressure systems from the Atlantic tracking across the northern half of the UK.

This week looks set to be fairly mild with the best of the temperatures usually in the east, however these warmer days will be punctuated by some cooler spells and some overnight frosts are still likely now and again. Spells of wet and windy weather will affect all parts at times, but the north and west will receive the lion’s share of the unsettled weather, with southern areas getting the driest conditions.

Monday 5 March—Sunday 18 March

A little more settled?

The overall set up continues in a similar theme into the middle of March, with high pressure continuing to be the dominant influence in the south. To the north, areas of low pressure will continue to feed through, however by now they are likely to be weaker systems and therefore bring less rain.

As a result, this period may well be drier in Scotland than recent weeks with sunshine amounts higher. Temperatures may be below average for the start of this period in the north, bringing a risk of some wintry weather and night frosts, however these figures should start to rise.

To the south temperatures are likely to be higher than typical values and we may well see some bright spring days, although with mist and fog sometimes forming at night in southern counties, this sunshine may at times be slow to appear.

Next week

Will we see a return to the cold?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/2635167

[Stuart]

Monday 27 February Published at 10:00

Monthly Outlook

Summary

A settled spring for some

The meterological winter ends on a mild note with spring bringing temperatures more typical for the time of year.

This month will see high pressure tending to dominate the weather across the south of the UK - often keeping the weather largely dry in areas that could really do with some significant rainfall.

Areas of low pressure will feed around this high bringing windier and wetter conditions to northern parts.

Monday 27 February—Sunday 4 March

Mild weather slips away

High pressure across the south of the country will dominate this week's weather. Frontal systems will push into the north and west at times bringing rain and strengthening winds but these fronts will weaken as they interact with the high, meaning there is little significant rain in store for the southeast.

Air being drawn around the high from the Azores brings a rather mild interlude this week - most noticeably on Monday night and Tuesday with temperatures reaching exceptionally mild values, particularly in eastern parts of England and Scotland. With high pressure causing winds to predominantly feed from the west, these eastern areas are also the most favoured for any sunshine. Western areas will generally be much cloudier and often plagued by rain and drizzle.

By the weekend we see weather fronts making slightly more determined progress from the northwest, gradually spreading cooler air across the country. The south will start largely dry and mild with wet and windy conditions to the north. Some patchy rain is likely as this front makes erratic progress southwards with strong winds and showers following to the northwest. Behind the front we shall see temperatures becoming closer to what we would expect at this time of year.

Monday 5 March—Sunday 11 March

High pressure dominates in the south

Successive Atlantic low pressure systems will pass near to the northwest of the country during this week, with northern and western parts of the UK likely to have showers and longer periods of rain for much of the period. Strong winds are also likely at times, with a risk of gales around coasts and hills. Temperatures here look set to be close to average with a chance of some slightly colder interludes later.

Meanwhile, high pressure over continental Europe should mean that southern, eastern and central areas remain more settled, and although there will probably be some rain at times, a good deal of dry weather is likely to mean conditions are drier than average for the time of year. Temperatures here will often be mild or very mild, especially at first, though still a chance of occasional overnight frost and fog.

Monday 12 March—Sunday 25 March

More of the same

High pressure is likely to remain in place to the south of the UK with low pressure systems bringing spells of unsettled weather to the north and some western parts of the UK. As such, rainfall amounts here are likely to be near average with typical temperatures for early spring.

Elsewhere we are likely to see more settled conditions so rainfall amounts will probably be average or below average, especially in eastern and southern Britain. Eastern areas will often be favoured with the best of the sunshine and temperatures are most likely to be close or above average. At this time of year overnight frosts are still a risk.

Next week

How long will the high pressure over Europe remain in place?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/2635167

[Stuart]

Monday 5 March Published at 10:00

Monthly Outlook

Summary

A mild start to spring

The meteorological spring began on an exceptionally mild note for some with temperatures reaching the mid to high teens in many places during the first week of March.

Looking ahead through to the rest of March, we are likely to see high pressure dominating conditions across southern and central parts of the UK, bringing a good deal of settled weather and milder periods.

Northern areas will always be at risk of experiencing cooler, wetter and windier interludes, although here too we could see some dry and milder spells.

Monday 5 March—Sunday 11 March

A Week of Changes

Early in the week there will be plenty of sunshine for western and northern areas of the UK as a ridge of high pressure pushes in from the Atlantic, with temperatures peaking at around about average by day, but with frosty nights.

Further to the southeast though, a low pressure system will bring wet, windy and cold conditions for East Anglia and Southeast England. On a positive note though, some parts of eastern counties that have seen little rainfall over the past few months will receive much needed rain.

During the course of Wednesday an active weather front will sweep in from the northwest to bring outbreaks of rain and strong southwesterly winds to all parts.

By Thursday pressure will start to build across Northern Europe that will help bring settled and milder weather to the southern half of the UK into the weekend. To the north though, winds will remain strong and temperatures shy of average as a cold front moves in from the north.

Monday 12 March—Sunday 18 March

Northwest/southeast split for the middle of March?

As we move into the middle part of March, it looks as if we’ll start to see high pressure developing to the south of the UK. Northwestern areas of the UK look set to remain rather unsettled for the start of the week, with temperatures around about average, or perhaps just below. By contrast, the forecast conditions across southeastern parts of the UK tend more towards settled conditions, with temperatures largely above average. By the middle of the week the milder and more settled conditions already affecting southern parts should gradually spread north to most parts of the UK, confining the stronger winds, which may reach gale force at times, and outbreaks of rain to the far northwest of Scotland.

So, on the whole we look set for a week of typical March weather, with a mixture of wet and windy spells and drier interludes. Temperatures don’t look like being particularly out of the ordinary, but it does look likely that there could be a few frosty nights. There are also indications that there will be some decent spells of sunshine by day for many.

Monday 19 March—Sunday 1 April

Perhaps a mild end to the month!?

Moving through the latter part of the month, current indications suggest that we’ll continue to see high pressure controlling weather conditions across the majority of the UK. This means that a generally settled period of weather is likely for most, with temperatures largely on the mild side. That said, some cooler, wetter and windier periods are still expected, predominantly in the north, but they are anticipated to be less frequent towards the end of the month.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/2635167#extra-uk-content

[Stuart]

Monday 12 March Published at 10:00

Monthly Outlook

Summary

Mild in March, Angry in April?

We've seen some fairly mild weather in recent weeks across many parts of the UK, and with high pressure dominating conditions this coming week, this mild and dry theme is set to continue at least for the next few days.

It does look increasingly likely that as we move towards the end of the month, we will see a return to periods of more unsettled weather, certainly for northern areas. Further south however the mild weather may well persist into April.

As for the start of April, early indications suggest that it could be an angry start with some blustery and wet weather on the way!

Monday 12 March—Sunday 18 March

The Pressure is High

As we start the week, a large anticyclone centred right over central southern England will control weather conditions across the UK.

On Monday most places will have a murky start, with a good deal of low cloud, hill fog and the chance for some patchy drizzle across western areas. Further to the east there will be some patchy mist and fog, especially near the coasts, but it will be a generally brighter start. Moving through the day, much of the early mist and murk will lift and clear to give a warm and sunny day for many areas, although western parts, and in particular Northern Ireland, and Northwest Scotland will stay cloudy throughout much of the day, with temperature rises somewhat tempered by the cloud.

Overnight into Tuesday mist, fog and low cloud will slowly reform across most areas, and although the vast majority of places will have a fairly mild night, anywhere that experiences prolonged breaks in the cloud may see temperatures dip close to freezing, meaning that a rural frost is not impossible in the most prone rural locations.

Moving further ahead into the week, we'll see a bit of a repeat performance on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday as the high pressure continues to bring dry and largely mild weather. Winds will start to strengthen from the west across northern parts through Thursday however, which will herald some changes as we move into Friday.

During Friday it looks likely that a low pressure system will swing in from the Atlantic to clip the far northwest of Scotland, bringing some wet and windy weather to all northwestern areas of the UK. Weather fronts associated with this system will sink southeast across all parts of the UK through Friday, but they will tend to peter out somewhat across southeastern parts, so many parts of England and Wales will stay essentially dry.

The weekend looks likely to bring some showery weather for all, with the showers most frequent and heavy in the north, before becoming more settled across southern areas later.

Monday 19 March—Sunday 25 March

Northwest/southeast split?

At the start of next week, it looks likely that pressure will be low across areas to the northwest of the UK, which will maintain a cool, showery and unsettled theme to parts of Northern Ireland, Western Scotland and Northwest England. Further to the southeast though, all indications point towards a situation where pressure stays relatively high, resulting in the return of more mild and dry weather.

It's worth noting though that despite the likelihood of milder conditions across southeastern areas of the UK, there will still be the chance of a touch of overnight frost, although that is not unusual for this time of year.

Monday 26 March—Sunday 1 April

Will March go out like a lamb?

Southern and southeastern areas are likely to remain mainly settled during the last week of March, with little in the way of rain forecast for the areas that need it most, and temperatures perhaps staying just above average. Northern and northwestern areas look set to stay changeable with some dry and bright periods, but also with a chance of some wet and windy weather too, and temperatures staying around average.

There are some signs of more generally unsettled weather affecting the UK at the start of April.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/2635167

[Stuart]

Monday 19 March Published at 10:00

Monthly Outlook

Summary

March out like a lamb, April in like a lion?

High pressure, responsible for much of the dry, mild weather of late, looks set to remain in the vicinity of the UK at least for the first fortnight, with the consequence that once again we could see daytime temperatures rising significantly higher than average where the sun shines.

However, just to prevent us forgetting that it still spring and not yet summer, it looks as though colder northerly or northwesterly winds will make a return with the arrival of April.

Monday 19 March—Sunday 25 March

The dry run continues

Low pressure to the north of the UK will bring some rain to northern parts to start the week; however high pressure will already be building across southern areas and settling things down here.

The build of pressure across the country will continue through the week, keeping rainfall amounts generally below average and well below in the parched south and east.

Temperatures will once again rise into the mild or very mild categories by day, especially under sunnier skies, although where cloud breaks persist overnight it will turn chilly with the risk of overnight frosts.

Sunshine amounts will depend on the prevailing wind direction around the anticyclone; central and eastern areas are favoured early on in the week, but then western and northern areas are likely to see the lion’s share later in the week as the high cell moves towards Denmark and introduces east or southeasterly winds across the UK. Windward coasts will tend to be cooler as well as cloudier.

At the end of the week there is a low risk of an area of showery rain moving into southern parts, extending northwards during Friday. Should this be realised, it will be the only chance this week for much-needed rain in the south of the country.

Monday 26 March—Sunday 1 April

As you were

The balance of probability currently favours a return to anticyclonic conditions, leading to yet another week of predominantly dry and settled weather across the bulk of the UK.

This will continue the run of above-average temperatures, the likes of which we would normally see during early summer. Again the daytime values will depend on amounts of cloud, and the persistence during the morning of any overnight fog. Under clear skies, night-time values could fall low enough for frost.

Monday 2 April—Sunday 15 April

Bye bye high

As we go into the first two weeks of April, the stubborn area of high pressure looks as though it may finally move off to the west and let low pressure return.

This will bring brisk winds from the north or northwest, allowing it to turn colder than average across the country, and increasing the chance of rain. Such wind directions at this time of year are responsible for those famous April showers, meaning some places in the south and east could remain quite sheltered, dry and sunny.

Thus, the signals suggest that while rainfall amounts will be near normal in the north and west, the south and east will continue with their rainfall deficit. Sunshine amounts will increase, especially in the south and east, but with clear skies and cold air it is likely to be cold and frosty by night in many parts.

Next week

Will the April showers fall where they're need most?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/2635167

[Stuart]

Monday 26 March Published at 10:00

Monthly Outlook

Summary

A taste of June in March

The weather has been dominated by a large anticylone over northwestern Europe. Dense fog has been a problem in the mornings with some eastern coastal parts hanging onto fog or low cloud into the afternoon keeping it grey and cool for some, but for most places, most of the recent days have been sunny, warm and dry.

Indeed, some parts of the UK may well set low rainfall records for the month which is not good news given the drought in large parts of England and the impending hose pipe ban.

Parks and open spaces have been teeming with people enjoying the early warmth. Temperatures have been several degrees above average, more like June than March, and some daily records have been broken. In fact, at the time of writing, the all time March temperature record in Scotland was broken. 22.8C was recorded at Fyvie Castle, Aberdeenshire on Sunday, beating the 22.2C recorded on 13th March 1957 and equalled on the 30th March 1965. We may break a record again on Monday.

Monday 26 March—Sunday 1 April

Very warm at first, cooling down later

For the week ahead we remain under the influence of the large anticyclone over northwest Europe. The centre of the high will drift westwards over the next few days, eventually allowing a northwesterly breeze to develop towards the end of the week.

The lower layer of the atmosphere will dry out so that the risk of overnight fog diminishes from Tuesday night onwards but the nights will still be chilly with a risk of frost in prone locations.

Most places can expect a lot of sunshine and well above average temperatures at first and while it will be cooler by the end of the week, however we should still be just above average. Into next weekend and we are expecting temperatures in the north of the UK to drop a degree or two below normal while further south we will be near normal.

There is no rain in the forecast until late Thursday into Friday but even then it's really only the far north of Scotland and amounts look pretty trivial.

By the weekend things will have changed for all with more cloud around.

Monday 2 April—Sunday 8 April

April brings some April showers

From the beginning of April, mainly westerly or southwesterly winds are expected to dominate.

Temperatures are likely to return nearer to average across all areas after the recent warm spell, with some quite chilly nights bringing the possibility of patchy frost.

It will also turn more unsettled and windier, particularly in the north of the UK, with rain or showers at times.

There will still be periods of dry and more settled weather, especially in the south.

In the far north, it may be cold enough for showers to turn wintry at times, with some hill snow possible.

Monday 9 April—Sunday 22 April

More unsettled

A generally unsettled period is expected to develop, with winds often from the west or northwest.

Rainfall amounts for the period look to be around average across the UK, with a continuing chance of some wintry showers falling in some northern areas, mainly on hills.

Temperatures will generally be near or a little below average, with a risk of overnight frosts.

Despite the predominantly more unsettled theme, there will be some drier interludes, particularly in the south, with further warm sunshine at times.

Next week

Will it settle down for the end of April?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/2635167

[Stuart]

Monday 2 April Published at 10:00

Monthly Outlook

Summary

“'til April's dead, change not a threadâ€Â

If the mad - indeed record-breaking - March weather caused you to pack away the winter woollies, it might be prudent to dig them back out again for the arrival of April.

High pressure is giving way to colder weather from the north through the early part of the new month. However, although it will turn much colder compared to the last week of March, April will actually be more seasonal, with temperatures close to average and April showers likely at times.

Monday 2 April—Sunday 8 April

“April snow breeds grassâ€Â

The southern half of the UK starts with temperatures around where they should be for the beginning of April, however changes will already be afoot further north.

Winter returns as wind, rain, sleet and snow moves southwards across Northern Ireland, England and Wales, having left a potentially disruptive covering of snow across parts of Scotland. The band of wintry weather will clear to leave colder conditions across the country for midweek, with wintry showers and sharp overnight frosts.

Although a brief ridge of high pressure may leave Thursday mainly dry and bright, this cold blast from the north will essentially open the door for the unsettled weather to continue. This means that the rainfall, much needed by farmers, gardeners and water companies, has a higher probability of occurring.

Monday 9 April—Sunday 15 April

“April showers bring forth May flowersâ€Â

A prolonged spell (longer than just one week could sensibly provide) of above-average rainfall is required to ease any drought conditions.

However, with further spells of rain or showers expected across much of the country, near or slightly above average rainfall amounts are likely during the second week of April, even in parts of southern England.

Sunshine will be a little below normal but a return to average temperatures is expected, perhaps a little above in any brighter weather.

Monday 16 April—Sunday 29 April

“April weather, rain and sun both togetherâ€Â

Low pressure seems most likely to dominate the weather through the second half of April; the unsettled theme continuing with showers or outbreaks of rain keeping rainfall amounts close to average. Sunshine amounts and temperatures also look set to be around the seasonal norm, so it is unlikely that we will see a repeat of April 2011, which was the warmest April on record across the UK.

Next week

After their premature airing during March, will May see a return to shorts and flip-flop-friendly weather?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/2635167

[Stuart]

Monday 9 April Published at 10:00

Monthly Outlook

Summary

They're called April showers for a reason

April 2011 was the warmest April across the UK since records began. At the moment April 2012 looks very unlikely to challenge that record. But if the April showers bring forth May flowers then we may be admiring some beautiful blooms next month.

After a cool, cloudy and damp start to the month we continue with an unsettled pattern as low pressure lingers into May bringing cool and showery conditions.

Monday 9 April—Sunday 15 April

Cool and showery

After the heavy rain on Easter Monday, the rest of the week can be broadly classified as 'sunshine and showers'.

Low pressure centred towards the northeast of the country will feed unstable air across the UK. As the saying goes, what comes up must come down. Where the air is coming down we will see sunny spells but where the air is rising it will do so rigorously leading to heavy and sometimes thundery showers with hail.

Although temperatures will tend to be fairly typical for the time of year, it will get cold enough for some wintry showers to fall across the high ground of Scotland and perhaps northern England. Frost is also likely to form in places overnight, more especially in the countryside.

Monday 16 April—Sunday 22 April

A similar story

Low pressure will remain in charge through this week which means showers are once again going to dominate our weather pattern. With very unstable air across the UK these showers are often likely to be heavy and thundery, bringing hail at times and snow across northern hills.

On occasion, these showers will merge, bringing longer spells of rain. The north and east of the country looks likely to see the lion's share of the wet weather at first with the best of any sunny spells in the west. However as the week progresses the showers will become increasingly likely to make their way from east to west.

Temperature-wise we will notice the mercury dropping a little lower than we would normally expect for mid-April and it will often be breezy, making it feel that bit cooler. Overnight frost will still be a possibility from time to time, particularly in the countryside.

Monday 23 April—Sunday 6 May

The low lingers

The low pressure seems very reluctant to leave as we head towards May, although high pressure may build towards Iceland for a time. Therefore unsettled weather is likely to remain in charge across the south of the country brining rain and showers, particularly for the last week of April. To the north it may become more settled at times with drier and brighter weather making an appearance.

Still often breezy and feeling chilly for this time of year, most noticeably in the north and east. Overnight frosts are still likely from time to time when the wind becomes light, particularly for inland areas in the countryside.

Next week

Is the low pressure here to stay?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/2635167

[Stuart]

Monday 16 April Published at 10:00

Monthly Outlook

Summary

Drip drip drop - more than a little April shower

April 2011 was the warmest April across the UK since records began and April 2012 still looks very unlikely to challenge that record. If April showers bring forth May flowers as the saying goes, then we may be admiring some beautiful blooms next month.

We keep the unsettled pattern this week, and with low pressure looking set to linger into May, cool and showery conditions will prevail.

Monday 16 April—Sunday 22 April

A similar story

Low pressure will remain in charge through this week, which means showers are once again going to dominate our weather pattern. With very unstable air across the UK these showers are likely to be heavy and thundery, bringing hail at times and snow across northern hills.

On occasion, these showers will merge, bringing longer spells of rain. The west of the country will see the lion's share of the wet weather at the start of the week, with the best of any sunny spells in the east on Monday. However as the week gets fully underway the wet and windy weather will make its way west to east, swiftly followed by blustery showers. These will, on occasion, merge to give longer spells of rain, especially across the south later on Tuesday into Wednesday.

Temperature-wise we will notice the mercury dropping a little lower than we would normally expect for mid-April and it will often be windy, making it feel that bit cooler. Overnight frost will still be a possibility from time to time, particularly in the countryside and especially on Monday morning, when it will be particularly sharp and damaging.

Monday 23 April—Sunday 29 April

A lingering low

Low pressure seems very reluctant to leave as we head towards May, therefore unsettled weather is likely to continue across country, bringing rain and showers. Some short interludes of fine and settled weather are likely to be mixed in too.

In association with some heavier spells of rain it is likely to be windy once again, and generally it will be breezy, making it feel chilly for the time of year. Overnight frosts are still likely from time to time when the wind becomes light, particularly for inland rural areas.

Monday 30 April—Sunday 13 May

Ne’er cast a clout till May be out

The changeable theme of April looks as though it will be carried forth into May. Although some drier and brighter spells are expected, further rain or showers are likely for most places, accompanied by a chilly feel.

There is the chance that pressure may start to build from the southwest towards the middle of May, which would settle things down across southern and western parts of the country, and as a result rainfall amounts here may end up lower than average. The north and east look to stay cloudier and wetter than normal, on balance.

Next week

Will an anticyclone build across the country, or will low pressure keep its grip

http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/2635167

[Summer Sun]

see below

Edited April 23, 2012 by Gavin D

[Stuart]

that was last week

[Summer Sun]

Monday 23 April Published at 10:00

Monthly Outlook

Summary

Cloudy, wet, cool

April 2011 was the warmest April across the UK since records began and April 2012 still looks very unlikely to challenge that record. We continue with the unsettled pattern this week, with some particularly cool and wet weather expected at times especially across southern parts. Added to the rain of last week, it's likely that some areas will have seen well over their average April rainfall. The arrival of the new month will not, however, bring a change in the weather. May looks set to carry on much as April ends.

Monday 23 April—Sunday 29 April

As you were

Showers and longer spells of rain is a handy, albeit unimaginative, catch-all summary phrase oft-used by forecasters. There are times though that it does the job perfectly and this week will be one such occasion. The week starts as it means to go on, with rain across the south and sunshine and heavy, thundery showers further north. Parts of the south could get quite a soaking, topping up the already swollen April rainfall totals. It will also be windy and with temperatures under the rainband rather supressed, it will feel rather chilly. In the sunshine between the showers across northern parts, temperatures will fare better, being around average for the time of year.

The wind and rain will linger in the east on Tuesday but elsewhere further showers are again likely. Across Scotland showers will become more persistent through the day and into Wednesday, accompanied by strengthening, cold northeasterly winds. Across the south of the UK on Wednesday, it may seem as though Monday has come again, as another wet and windy low pressure system sweeps in. Little change for Thursday, with rainfall totals rising further accompanied by chilly winds and little sunshine. The sunshine may return to end the week, as may the average temperatures but only between the April showers.

Monday 30 April—Sunday 6 May

April showers bring forth... May showers

Low pressure seems very reluctant to leave as we head into May, although some interludes of more settled weather are likely to be mixed in between the rain and showers. With the heavier spells of rain it is likely to be windy once again, making it feel chilly for the time of year. Overnight frosts are still likely from time to time when the wind becomes light, particularly for inland rural areas.

Monday 7 May—Sunday 20 May

April Part II?

It may seem as if the calendar hadn't told the weather that May arrived! Conditions look likely to remain largely unsettled into the middle of the month with a continuation of those showers or longer spells of rain. Rainfall totals are expected to be close to or just above average, especially across the north of the country. Between the rain or showers there should also be some drier and brighter interludes, these most likely in the south. Temperatures will largely be close to or just below the May average although it will always feel cool in the wind and rain.

Next week

It's what is needed to help areas in drought but is there any sign of an end to the wet weather?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/2635167

[Summer Sun]

Monthly Outlook

Summary

Contrasting fortunes

A change in the calendar is bringing with it a change in the weather, but only temporarily and not for everyone. Settled weather will favour the northern half of the country for a few days at least, whilst further rain is forecast across the southern half. Through the rest of May it looks set to be cool and breezy generally, with some areas continuing with the trend of above-average rainfall.

Monday 30 April—Sunday 6 May

A north-south split

Low pressure close to the south of the UK and high pressure to the north means that this week is broadly a tale of two halves weather-wise. The southern half of the country will have several bouts of wet and often windy weather, with the rain heavy at times and possibly thundery. This will result in above to well above average rainfall across England and Wales. Temperatures will nevertheless be warmer than of late, even warmer than average for the time of year, so in any brighter interludes it should feel quite pleasant. Across the north of the UK it will be a much drier week, with rainfall about average for the month. Under the influence of east or north-easterly winds there will still be contrasts in the weather from west to east, especially in amounts of sunshine. The best of the sun, and the warmest weather, will be found across western Scotland and Northern Ireland, especially well-sheltered areas. Across eastern Scotland, haar will at times keep the coasts cooler and duller, and fret may also affect parts of northeast England at times too.

Monday 7 May—Sunday 13 May

The north wind doth blow

High pressure looks set to make a shift to the west or northwest of the UK, so with lower pressure to the east this will introduce cool north to northwesterly winds across the country. This usually means unsettled weather, and indeed there is a signal for further showers or longer spells of rain - and hill snow - leading to near or above average rainfall for most parts compared to May averages. Given the predominant wind direction it is also no surprise that temperatures will generally be below average. On a brighter note, with that wind direction western areas should be favoured for the most sunshine. Given this, and some good shelter, parts of south Wales and southwest England may see the highest of the temperatures during this week, possibly coming in above average for these regions.

Monday 14 May—Sunday 27 May

A slow return towards average?

At present, the blocking anticyclone to the west of the UK doesn't look as though it will move anywhere too quickly during the second half of the month. With lower pressure to the northeast, this will maintain the idea that the north and east of the country will remain cooler and more unsettled with rainfall amounts higher than the May average. At the same time, the best of the drier and brighter weather is more likely to be found across southern and western parts of the British Isles, allowing temperatures here to be around where they should be at this time of year.

Next week

Will high pressure take more of a hold across the UK?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/2635167

[Stuart]

just beating me to it

[Summer Sun]

Summary

Contrasting fortunes

Following a Bank Holiday weekend which did provide some parts of the country with at least a couple of brighter, albeit cool days, normal service will be resumed this week. Temperatures are set to return closer to average, but with that comes further spells of rain, especially for southern Britain.

The rest of May still looks set to be unsettled generally, with some areas continuing with the trend of above-average rainfall.

Monday 7 May—Sunday 13 May

A sign of something more settled... eventually?

Low pressure sweeping in from the southwest to start the week will open the doors for an unsettled few days. Spells of rain are expected across much of the country, especially on Thursday which looks particularly wet and windy across Wales and England. Temperatures by day should return a little closer to average, except in any persistent rain. Night-time frosts may still be an isolated risk.

As that low pressure system clears away into Scandinavia on Friday however, a ridge of high pressure extending in from the Atlantic currently looks set to bring a more settled spell to most of the UK for the coming weekend. This should bring more in the way of sunshine, and help temperatures climb a little above average across southern parts. A cool air-mass means night frosts will still be a possibility, especially across the north. There is the risk that rain might cling on to southern areas of the UK to start the weekend.

Monday 14 May—Sunday 20 May

A slow return towards average?

As the ridge of high pressure nudges southwards, so the brighter weather will spread south and east, but at the same time cloudier and wetter conditions look set to move into the northwest to start the new week. This will take temperatures below normal in the north, but they will remain around or above normal in the south.

During the early part of the week, the weather becomes predominately more westerly, with periods of cloud and rain interspersed with drier and clearer spells, which could continue to allow some frosts overnight. The latter part of the week and weekend sees an increasing chance of more settled weather, with temperatures around normal.

Monday 21 May—Sunday 3 June

Flaming June?

Overall there are no strong signals favouring any particular weather type as we head into June. Total rainfall amounts are likely to be at least around average in many areas, with perhaps some northwestern areas seeing above average rainfall. The indications currently point towards temperatures being below average rather than above, however the balance of evidence does hint that if we do get a spell of relatively warm, dry weather, this is a little more likely to come at the start of June.

Next week

With the start of climatological summer, will the weather turn summery too?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/2635167

[Stuart]

Monday 14 May Published at 10:00

Monthly Outlook

Summary

Barbecues stay in the shed

Last week spring warmth made a brief reappearance in eastern England with 21C reached for the first time since March, but this was only a fleeting taste of what we are missing. Since then it's cooled down again and there is precious little hope for warm weather lovers in the near future.

Monday 14 May—Sunday 20 May

Disappointingly cool with rain at times

After a wet and windy start to the week followed by some heavy showers on Tuesday, high pressure builds across England and Wales on Wednesday settling things down until the weekend.

In contrast on Thursday and Friday in Scotland and Northern Ireland another Atlantic frontal system brings further cloud and rain.

By the weekend we are looking to the south as a developing area of low pressure in the Bay of Biscay threatens to bring rain and showers northwards across England and Wales.

Temperatures return to near normal by the end of the week, but the nights remain chilly and growers should remain alert to the danger of frost in the drier, clearer areas.

Monday 21 May—Sunday 27 May

Slightly warmer for some but still unsettled

The weather will remain changeable as May draws to a close and although temperatures are expected to remain close to average there is a signal for some warmer conditions in the far northwest and far southeast. Despite this, growers can still expect some overnight ground frosts in places.

The indications are that the bulk of the wet weather this week will be in England and Wales with drier than usual conditions in the north of the United Kingdom.

Monday 28 May—Sunday 10 June

Flaming June starts without the flames

There is no strong signal favouring any particular type of weather as the new month and meteorological summer begins and no indication of the arrival of summer heat.

We should expect the weather to remain unsettled in most places, although of course that doesn't mean it will be raining all the time as there will also be some drier and sunnier periods too.

Average temperatures are most likely although some spots in the south may be slightly below normal where it may also be a little wetter than normal.

Next week

As June continues will the weather dampen the progress of the Olympic torch or perk up for Royal Ascot and Wimbledon?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/2635167

[Stuart]

Monday 21 May Published at 10:00

Monthly Outlook

Summary

Warmth and sunshine in the forecast at last

March spoilt many areas of the British Isles with a good deal of sunshine and temperatures more suited to June. April and May thus far, therefore, have come as something of a disappointment. Sure, April's rain alleviated the drought in some parts of England but a little sunshine to lighten the gloom wouldn't have gone amiss.

At last, the forecast offers the prospect of temperatures remaining above average for more than just a day or two. Wall to wall sunshine will prove a little more difficult to conjure up.

As June progresses, so conditions may become more unsettled with cooler weather predominating.

Monday 21 May—Sunday 27 May

Sunshine and warmth at last

Monday is the transitional day from the cloudy and cool weather of recent days to brighter skies and much-needed warmth. Whilst some areas may brighten as the day progresses, some eastern coastal areas of both England and Scotland will be plagued by low cloud.

The middle of the week will be mainly dry and marked by temperatures in the low to mid 20s with plenty of hazy sunshine. Low cloud will again affect eastern coasts. Some Irish Sea coasts may experience similar conditions.

As high pressure builds over Scandinavia, so an easterly wind will develop across the British Isles, helping to lift the low cloud over eastern England. Channel coasts may still experience patches of low cloud. All parts will stay dry with some sunny spells and it will again feel warm away from those areas affected by low cloud.

Monday 28 May—Sunday 3 June

Warm end to May

With high pressure still dominant close to Scandinavia, northern parts of the British Isles are likely to see the best of the dry and settled weather.

More changeable conditions are likely to spread across many other parts, with periods of rain or showers, although still interspersed by drier spells with some sunshine.

Temperatures are likely to be above average in all areas, with the exception of eastern coastal areas, where some low cloud and an on-shore breeze will keep it cool. It will feel very warm in central and southern parts of Britain.

Monday 4 June—Sunday 17 June

Warm start to June but soon turning cooler

Indications are that the start of June will probably be mainly dry and settled with some sunshine for much of the British Isles. Temperatures will start above average but a return to more unsettled conditions as the month progresses will have the effect of lowering temperatures in many parts.

Next week

Planning to see the Olympic torch? Check the conditions for your area here.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/2635167

[Stuart]

Monday 28 May Published at 10:00

Monthly Outlook

Summary

A mainly dry start to June but will it last?

After a cold start to May, the month ended with a lovely spell of warm weather for everyone, with temperatures widely reaching the mid to high twenties. As we move into early June, it's not expected to be quite as warm, with temperatures returning to around average. Looking further ahead there are signs that things will turn a little more unsettled, with a mixture of showery weather and some brightness. Read on for more details...

Monday 28 May—Sunday 3 June

Sunny and warm at first but change on the way.

Monday will be a another hot and sunny day for the vast majority of the UK. There will always the risk of some patchy coastal mist and fog in the east and perhaps for stretches of the Welsh coasts too. During Monday afternoon there will be just a small risk of isolated, very heavy and thundery showers affecting parts of Southeast England and the Midlands. Across the far north of Scotland, we will start to see cooler air pushing in from the north, perhaps bringing the odd shower and returning temperatures to average values for the time of year.

By Tuesday, the cooler air across northern Scotland will move a little further south to introduce more in the way of cloud to northern areas and the chance of the odd shower. Elsewhere, it will be another day of lengthy sunny spells and high temperatures but there will be a scattering of heavy showers.

Wednesday will bring yet more heavy, potentially thundery and slow moving showers across many parts but with some good spells of sunshine between.

On Thursday, prolonged spells of rainfall across southern parts of the UK will gradually clear away to the northeast with skies brightening significantly in the wake of the rain.

Heading into the Jubilee weekend, high pressure will take over with plenty of dry and bright weather around, although there will always be just a chance of the odd light shower across eastern areas, where the cloud will always be thickest. Temperatures will be around about average for the time of year.

Monday 4 June—Sunday 10 June

The gradual return of some wet weather?

It will stay mainly dry and bright across many parts of the UK into the second half of the Jubilee weekend with the chance of some good spells of sunshine for western areas. There'll tend to be more cloud across southern and eastern areas where the cloud may thicken enough for the odd light shower. Temperatures will be around average for the time of year and accompanied by light winds but in the cloudier eastern areas, temperatures may be a little below average.

Moving into the early part of next week, there won't initially be a great deal of change with high pressure continuing to bring mainly dry and bright conditions to most areas. There will always with the threat of more cloud running down the North Sea though, threatening eastern parts with the odd shower.

By the end of the week conditions look more unsettled towards northwestern areas with the risk of rain and showers developing and spreading to all areas. At the moment there aren't any strong indications of another spell of very warm weather during this period but it should still feel pleasant in the brighter and drier interludes with temperatures reaching average values.

Monday 11 June—Sunday 24 June

No sign of a flaming June just yet

Early indications suggest that most areas of the UK will be affected by rather changeable weather through the middle part of June, with showery spells and periods of more prolonged rainfall. That said, there should also be some brighter periods too. At the moment it looks as if the south will bear the brunt of the more unsettled weather, with the drier and brighter weather being to the north. Forecast temperatures don't look particularly out of the ordinary with average values anticipated. That said, southern areas that do see more rain may well experience temperatures that are just a touch below the June average.

Next week

Will there be hot weather on the way for the end of June?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/2635167

[Stuart]

Monday 4 June Published at 10:00

Monthly Outlook

Summary

No Sign of a Flaming June

In stark contrast to the warm and dry weather we saw towards the end of May, the beginning of June has been rather cool for most, with rain affecting large parts of the UK. Things look set to stay rather unsettled through the coming week for much of the UK, and as we move through the month, the forecast offers little prospect of any prolonged spells of dry weather. Read on for more details.......

Monday 4 June—Sunday 10 June

Plenty of Rain

The wet and cool Jubilee Weekend really set the scene for the weather this week, with the general theme of spells of rain interspersed brighter intervals anticipated throughout much of the week.

By the middle of the week, showery conditions will really start to take hold across all parts of the UK. Indeed the showers will turn heavy and thundery and form into bands at times, bringing some large accumulations for some, especially across the south. It'll turn windy across the south too during Wednesday and Thursday.

Moving further ahead into the weekend, it's likely that most places will see further bands of showers and more prolonged spells of rain moving in from the west as Atlantic low pressure systems cross the UK.

In the main, it'll be on the cool side with daytime maxima staying just a little below average, although it'll still be quite pleasant in the brighter intervals.

Monday 11 June—Sunday 17 June

Any change?

As we head into the middle of June it looks as if we'll maintain the unsettled theme, with low pressure systems crossing the UK early in the week.

Initially it will be fairly windy, particularly in the south, with a good chance of some prolonged spells of rain for all parts of the UK as weather fronts tend to sweep in from the Atlantic. There are indications that there will also be some drier interludes at first though, particularly across the east.

Towards the middle of the week a transient ridge of high pressure may help ease the winds, and give some dry weather for a time. However as we approach the end of the week, potentially heavy showers are expected to cross all areas, introducing the possibility of some locally large rainfall totals.

In the main, temperatures will be around about average, and it may even feel pleasantly warm in the longer spells of dry weather. However in the more prolonged spells of rain, temperatures are likely to be just below average.

Monday 18 June—Saturday 30 June

More rain on the way?

Early indications suggest that the second half of June will start rather cool, with temperatures shy of average across many areas, and yet more prolonged spells of rain interspersed by periods of sunshine and showers. However towards the end of the month there are signs to suggest that there will be some generally drier weather on the way, with temperatures recovering to above average, so in essence feeling warm in the sunnier intervals.

Next week

Will there be any warm weather during July?.......

http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/2635167

[Stuart]

Monday 11 June Published at 10:00

Monthly Outlook

Summary

A very disappointing start to summer

Has June really started? The Queen's Jubilee river pageant was badly hampered by rain and notably low temperatures, it wasn't just Prince Philip that fell ill, some 500 or so spectators were treated for hypothermia...in June. Then an unusually deep low headed our way bringing a lot of rain, very strong winds and quite a bit of disruption. A few trees were toppled, bringing down some power lines and affecting transport networks, and numerous marquees were blown off their moorings. Two campsites in west Wales were inundated with flood water and the Third Test at Edgbaston was washed out for the opening two days, the first time that has happened in England, in June, for 48 years.

I think you'll agree that the start of summer has failed to get anyone excited, shorts and tee-shirts still in the wardrobe and no real signs of things settling down for a while.

Monday 11 June—Sunday 17 June

Cool and unsettled

Low pressure will be the dominant force this week and for most parts of the UK it looks quite cool and unsettled. For England and Wales there will be spells of rain which could be heavy at times and also some heavy, potentially thundery showers. All in all, rainfall amounts will probably be well above the average, and consequently sunshine amounts will fall short of expectations.

In Scotland and Northern Ireland there are likely to be some heavy showers which will bring rainfall amounts close to or just above the average, with near normal amounts of sunshine. In terms of temperatures, the southeast of England stands the best chance of getting close to the seasonal norm, but generally speaking most places will be on the cool side.

Monday 18 June—Sunday 24 June

Pressure rising in the south

A northwest / southeast split may start to develop with pressure beginning to rise over England and Wales bringing more settled conditions but much lower pressure to the northwest of the UK means further wind and rain.

With this sort of set up, Northern Ireland, the north and west of Scotland can expect to see the wettest weather while for England and Wales, persistent rain becomes less likely, but heavy showers are still possible.

Temperatures are expected to edge back towards normal, so whenever the sun does break through it should feel a little more like summer.

Monday 25 June—Sunday 8 July

A hint of summer

There are no strong signals for any patticular weather type to dominate this period. However there is a possibility of slightly more settled conditions than of late, particularly in southern and perhaps eastern areas, with rainfall around or slightly below average, so Wimbledon officials nervously scanning the sky may take some comfort from that.

For the start of July there is a weak signal for slightly wetter than average conditions in the northwest. Temperatures probably remaining around average throughout.

Next week

Any proper summer warmth for mid-July?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/2635167

[Stuart]

Monday 18 June Published at 10:00

Monthly Outlook

Summary

Some drier, warmer weather

The soggy June weather continued over many parts of the British Isles last week. Parts of England and Wales have already received their average June rainfall. And just for a change the driest of the weather has been across the north of Scotland. There are some signs of drier, warmer weather to come, however we are not out of the woods just yet as further spells of rain are set to cross the country this coming week.

Monday 18 June—Sunday 24 June

Deceptively drier and brighter for a time

A ridge of high pressure will build to give a lot of dry weather across the British Isles. There will always be the risk of showers on Monday, becoming confined to Scotland, Northern Ireland and the north of England on Tuesday and Wednesday. Temperatures will be close to normal and even warm over southern areas on Wednesday.

Then, it's all change once again. An area of low pressure will cross all parts bringing outbreaks of rain. The rain will be persistent and heavy for a time on Thursday, giving way to drier interludes and heavy showers on Friday. It will also be windy at times with a noticeable drop in temperatures.

Drier, brighter weather will return over the weekend with a recovery in temperatures.

Monday 25 June—Sunday 1 July

Changeable in north. Somewhat drier in south

The unsettled weather will continue but, just for a change, the wettest weather is likely to be over Scotland. Still some outbreaks of rain over the rest of the UK but at least a drier end to the month for the south of England. So we can have some cautious optimism for the first week of Wimbledon. Temperatures will be close to normal for the end of June but cooler in the wetter weather, especially in the north.

Monday 2 July—Sunday 15 July

Still some unsettled weather, especially in north.

There will continue to be a marked contrast in the weather. Northern and western parts of the British Isles will continue to see further spells of rain, while the south and east will have more in the way of dry and brighter weather but still with some rain or heavy showers here too. Temperatures a little on the cool side to start the month but rising close to normal by mid-July.

Next week

Can we hoping for something more settled and warm?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/2635167

[Stuart]

Monday 25 June Published at 10:00

Monthly Outlook

Summary

Longest day was followed by wettest day for some

As we move past the summer solstice, it's been another week of severe weather across parts of the British Isles. Some places are approaching three times their normal June rainfall with still another few days of the month to go. Highest rainfall was over parts of Cumbria, accumulations of 134mm in 48 hours up to Saturday morning.

We do have a brief drier warmer spell of weather coming up but it's all downhill again later this week.

Monday 25 June—Sunday 1 July

Drier, brighter, warmer for a time

After the rain at the end of last week, we are looking at a much drier start to this week and brighter too. Many places will be dry on Monday and Tuesday with some sunshine and a few showers.

More persistent rain will spread across many northern and western parts of the British Isles on Wednesday.

It will become warm by the time we get to Thursday and even very warm in the Southeast. The heat will trigger off thundery showers on Thursday and Friday.

Cooler weather will follow over the weekend with showers becoming fewer and lighter.

Monday 2 July—Sunday 8 July

Will a change in month bring change in weather?

Not if you live across more northern and western areas. Westerly winds will bring showers or some longer spells of rain, especially to parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland as well as Northern England. Temperatures will be on the cool side.

South and eastern England will see more in the way of drier and brighter weather. There will be some sunshine, still some showers and near normal temperatures.

Monday 9 July—Sunday 22 July

Drier and brightest in south and east

Westerly winds will continue to bring some unsettled conditions to more northern and western areas. The south and east will be drier and brighter but still with the risk of showers. Temperatures close to normal for the middle of July although cooler in the Northwest.

Next week

Hopeful for something more like summer.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/2635167

[Summer Sun]

Sunday 1 July Published at 10:00

Monthly Outlook

Summary

A new month, same old weather

Hopes of a more settled spell of weather in the near future are slim. After an exceptionally wet June the start of July continues on an all too familiar theme.

Monday 2 July—Sunday 8 July

Rain most days for most of the UK

An area of low pressure which will roll in to the west on Monday will dictate the weather across the UK for the remainder of the week. The first half of the week will feature outbreaks of rain and plentiful cloud. Misty and murky conditions will linger over hills and around the coasts, particularly in the south and west.

Midweek onwards showers will come to the forefront. Although these may allow us to see the sun occasionally, the showers are likely to bring more intense rainfall with Friday looking very soggy. The week will be fairly windy and with temperatures only around average values, combined with the rain, the feel is likely to be somewhat cool.

Monday 9 July—Sunday 15 July

The lows keep rolliing in

There is little sign of the weather settling down this week. More rain is forecast for all areas, with the heaviest and most persistent focused on the north and west. It will also remain breezy.

Temperatures will remain unremarkable reaching around average values at best. For southern and eastern areas there may be a lull in the wettest and windiest weather briefly, but confidence in this is low.

Monday 16 July—Sunday 29 July

Still unsettled

Westerly winds will continue to bring some unsettled conditions to more northern and western areas. The south and east will be drier and brighter but still with the risk of showers. Temperatures close to normal for the middle of July although cooler in the Northwest.

Next week

How will the weather behave for the start of the school holidays?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/2635167

[Stuart]

Monday 9 July Published at 10:00

Monthly Outlook

Summary

A stubborn jet stream brings further rain

Two of the last three months have had record-breaking rainfall, with both April and June reporting the highest rainfall totals in over a century. This is due to the location of the jet stream which has been sitting much further south than would normally be expected at this time of year, bringing low pressure systems across the UK.

July started on a very similar note with heavy downpours leading to severe flooding in parts of the country. Some locations have already seen around twice their monthly average rainfall.

At the moment there are no indications to suggest when the jet stream will return to a more seasonal position, meaning that further unsettled weather is likely to dominate the weather pattern over the coming weeks.

Monday 9 July—Sunday 15 July

Often wet and breezy

This week will be cool with spells of rain. The low pressure that brought the recent heavy rainfall will shift eastwards towards Scandinavia, allowing northerly winds to bring very cold air across the UK. The middle of the week in particular is likely to see unseasonably low temperatures with a grass frost possible in some locations on Wednesday night.

The weekend will be cool and breezy, especially in northern areas, with northwesterly winds bringing showers to most parts of the country. Any brightness will be limited although the best of it is likely to be in central and southern regions on Saturday.

Monday 16 July—Sunday 22 July

Staying unsettled

We continue with the largely unsettled theme, as mobile, westerly winds take charge across the south of the UK and low pressure systems dominate to the north.

All areas are likely to see showers and longer spells of rain at times throughout the week, although totals should not be as high as the levels of rainfall seen recently. It will remain breezy with some exposed coasts likely to experience gales on occasion.

There will be some drier, brighter spells between the bands of rain with central and southern areas once again most likely to be in line for the best of these. Although it will tend to stay rather cool, given the strength of the sun at this time of year, it will feel warm in any sunny spells, especially in the south.

Monday 23 July—Sunday 5 August

Little change for the start of August

Climatologically speaking, the end of July and beginning of August is the warmest time of the year. Whilst there may be some dry and sunny interludes during this time, the overall pattern remains unsettled and a prolonged spell of hot and sunny weather looks very unlikely.

At the moment the wet and cool weather that has dominated June and the start of July looks set to continue into the beginning of August. Although conditions are unlikely to be quite as poor, we will continue to experiencing showers and longer spells of rain. Temperatures are likely to stay on the low side, although it will feel warm in any sunny spells.

Next week

Is there any end in sight to this unsettled weather?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/2635167

[Stuart]

Monday 16 July Published at 10:00

Monthly Outlook

Summary

It's been another wet week for most...but not all

The past week has seen yet more periods of heavy rainfall across many parts of the UK. Some places are now approaching three times their normal July rainfall within the first two weeks of the month. Weather warnings for impacts of heavy rain have been in force on most days. Even modest amounts of rain are now leading to problems due to the saturated ground.

However, one part of the UK has stayed unusually dry. Northwest Scotland has been extremely dry for some time and there are water restrictions in place.

Not only has it been extremely wet in many parts, it has also been disappointingly dull. Edinburgh has seen less than 2 hours of sunshine during the first 11 days of July which is just 1% of average.

However we are now beginning to see some changes in the weather pattern beyond the coming week.

Monday 16 July—Sunday 22 July

More wet weather, especially mid-week

Still a very unsettled look to the weather with rain crossing many parts of the country along with warm, muggy conditions in the south. The rain will be mostly light during Monday and Tuesday with drier weather in the far North. Wednesday looks to be the day when we will see heavier rain crossing the UK, especially North Wales, Northern England and Southern Scotland.

A ridge of high pressure will bring drier, brighter conditions later in the week, lasting into the weekend in the south, however rain will return to northern areas.

Monday 23 July—Sunday 29 July

Cautious optimism for some

Changeable conditions will continue into the following week. However, there are now signs that the unsettled weather will become more focussed towards northern and western parts of the United Kingdom. This will result in drier, more settled conditions in the south with some brighter, warmer weather.

Monday 30 July—Sunday 12 August

Changeable in north but drier, brighter in south

The weather will remain changeable, especially over more northern parts of the UK. There will be drier, brighter and warmer weather further south but some rain is expected at times.

So overall, conditions are expected to be better than we have seen so far this summer.

Next week

Will the weather win any gold medals?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/2635167

That better fixed

Edited July 16, 2012 by Stuart