Northern Ireland experienced a significant drop in temperatures this past week, with the coldest early September since 1986. The UK as a whole saw temperatures plummet below zero, with a low of -1.4°C recorded in the Co Down hamlet of Katesbridge. This unseasonably chilly start also marked the earliest frost in Northern Ireland since August 24th, 2020. However, there is good news on the horizon as warmer weather is set to make a welcome return for the weekend.
Weekend Forecast: Warmer Weather Ahead
The Met Office has predicted that the weekend will bring a much-needed respite from the cold snap, with temperatures expected to climb back up to the high teens or even reach 20°C in some areas. Chief meteorologist at the Met Office, Jason Kelly, stated that the cold Arctic air will be replaced with warmer westerlies over the weekend.
“High pressure will bring fine weather to the south, but there is an area of low pressure to the north-west, which will push some weather fronts across Scotland and Northern Ireland, bringing rain and thicker cloud. It will also be windy across northern Scotland, especially on Saturday,” Kelly explained.
Sunday is expected to see the front moving south-east, bringing cloud and patchy rain to parts of northern England and Wales. However, clear and sunny spells are expected on either side of the front, with dry conditions in the south but some showers in the north. The warmer temperatures are anticipated to linger into next week, with dry weather expected for many regions.
Deputy chief meteorologist David Oliver added, “In the wake of the front on Sunday, high pressure then builds, bringing fine and dry conditions to most parts of the UK for much of next week. If any rain develops, it is expected to be confined to the extreme north-west of Scotland on Monday and Tuesday. There is a risk of some fog patches overnight, and temperatures will continue to increase, with many places a little above average by mid-week.”
What to Expect in Northern Ireland
According to the Met Office, Saturday will start off dry with some brightness, mainly in the southeast. The afternoon is expected to be cloudy with some patchy light rain spreading eastwards. It will be a milder day with fresh southerly winds, and the maximum temperature is forecasted to reach 18°C. Looking ahead, Sunday is expected to be dry with warm sunshine, while Monday will stay dry. Tuesday is predicted to be dry, bright, and warm as well.
Long Range Weather Forecast
Moving into the second half of next week, the majority of the UK is expected to experience fine and dry conditions, with spells of sunshine for most areas during the day. Any rainfall that does develop will likely be confined to the far north or northwest at the start of this period. Daytime temperatures are expected to be above average for many regions, with the possibility of cool nights and mist or fog patches developing overnight. Additionally, there may be fairly strong winds affecting the south at times.
Looking towards the following weekend and the week that follows, there is little change expected in the weather pattern. However, by late September, there is a chance that more unsettled conditions may begin to develop. For the latest news updates, visit the Belfast Live homepage and sign up for their daily newsletter.
In Conclusion
Northern Ireland is set to see a welcome change in weather conditions over the weekend, with warmer temperatures on the horizon after a cold start to September. The Met Office’s forecast predicts dry and sunny spells for the region, with temperatures climbing back up to more seasonal levels. As we move into the second half of the month, the UK as a whole can expect fine and dry conditions, with the possibility of some unsettled weather towards the end of September. Stay updated with the latest weather news and enjoy the warmer days ahead.
