Cold Arctic air sweeps across the UK bringing snow, hail, thunderstorms and a sharp wind chill

Cold Arctic air spreads across the UK

A surge of colder Arctic air is moving across the United Kingdom, bringing a noticeable shift in conditions by midweek. The change arrives quickly. The air turns sharper.

On Wednesday, strong north to north-west winds dominate much of the country. Gusts intensify across parts of southwest England, with speeds reaching up to 60 mph. The wind cuts through the air.

It feels colder than it is.

Daytime temperatures remain between 5 and 10°C across the country. Under the influence of wind, it feels closer to freezing to 5°C.

Showers turn wintry with hail and thunder

The pattern is unstable. Sunshine breaks through at times, but showers develop quickly.

Across northern Scotland, Scotland, the most frequent showers arrive, with additional activity spreading into north-west England, England and north-west Wales, Wales.

Some of these showers turn wintry. Snow falls over higher ground. In northern Scotland, Scotland, there is a chance of snow even at lower levels.

Hail is expected in several areas. Thunderstorms may develop within these showers.

Short bursts. Sudden intensity.

A cold night with frost developing

As night falls, temperatures drop further. Skies clear in parts of the east.

A widespread frost develops across eastern Scotland, Scotland and north-east England, England. The air turns still. The ground cools quickly.

Wind shift brings gradual improvement

By Thursday, the wind begins to change direction. The cold north-westerly flow weakens and transitions toward a west or south-westerly pattern.

The air becomes less cold. Conditions stabilize.

After a chilly start, sunshine becomes more frequent. Winds ease. The difference is noticeable.

Temperatures begin to recover.

End of week remains unsettled with further changes

Into Friday, daytime temperatures rise slightly, reaching between 7 and 13°C. Values move closer to seasonal norms.

The broader pattern remains unsettled. Showers continue at times into the weekend.

On Saturday, wintry conditions may return again to parts of Scotland, Scotland. Snow is possible over higher ground.

By Sunday, a new system approaches from the west. Rain becomes more persistent. Winds strengthen once again.

The pattern shifts again.