Home / Environment / UK Hit by Arctic Blast: Hail and Thunder Expected!
UK Hit by Arctic Blast: Hail and Thunder Expected!
13 May
Summary
- Temperatures are several degrees below mid-May average.
- Cold air is being dragged from Scandinavia and the Arctic.
- Warmer weather with temperatures over 20C is expected by bank holiday weekend.

A significant cold snap is currently affecting the UK, with temperatures several degrees below the seasonal average for mid-May. Northerly winds are drawing cold air from northern Scandinavia and the Arctic region.
On Wednesday, temperatures are expected to hover around 14C in the southwest and 9C in Scotland, significantly cooler than the typical 12-17C range. The Met Office has warned of blustery showers, which could bring hail and thunder, particularly to eastern areas later in the afternoon.
This unsettled and windy weather is predicted to continue into Thursday across England and Scotland, with showers potentially turning thundery. Temperatures are expected to remain cool throughout the period.
However, a shift towards drier conditions is anticipated for Friday and the weekend, with showers clearing to allow for some cloud and sunshine. Temperatures are expected to stay cool until Sunday.
Looking ahead, warmer weather is on the horizon, with forecasts predicting sunny conditions and temperatures potentially exceeding 20C by the end of next week, aligning with the upcoming bank holiday weekend.