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UK Winter Ends with Sunshine Surprise!
21 Feb
Summary
- UK experienced 70% of average sunshine this winter.
- South England may see up to 15C next week.
- Rainfall varied significantly across UK regions.
The UK's dreary winter is giving way to warmer temperatures and sunshine in the coming days, according to forecasters. This winter, the country experienced only 70% of its average sunshine and above-average rainfall. However, with one week left of meteorological winter, milder conditions are expected, with "glimmers of sunshine" anticipated this weekend.
Temperatures are predicted to rise, with the south of England potentially reaching 15C early next week. While the UK has seen wet conditions overall, rainfall has varied significantly by region. Eastern Scotland has recorded 114% of its average rainfall, whereas northern and north-western Scotland received only 60%. Similarly, the Midlands experienced 140% of expected rainfall, contrasted with north-west England at 90%.
This regional disparity is attributed to a southerly shift in the jet stream, which pushed low-pressure systems further south than usual and caused them to stall. This setup directed a semi-permanent south-easterly flow into the UK, funneling rain into areas like the south-west of England and eastern Scotland, while western Scotland remained drier.
The Met Office also highlighted that climate change provides context for the wetter weather, increasing the likelihood of intense storms. A warmer atmosphere holds more moisture, leading to heavier and more intense downpours when precipitation occurs.
