Temperatures in the UK could hit 17°C this weekend in a dramatic shift in the weather.
After a week of freezing temperatures with temperatures in the UK hitting a low of -23°C, it is going to feel a lot milder this week as temperatures rise above average and most of us seeing highs of between 10°C and 14°C.
Met Office forecaster Nick Miller said: "Get ready for weather whiplash. As much as we were in the blue last week, it is now turning orange as temperatures go above average for the time of year.
"The high pressure to the east of us that was pumping in that very cold air on that easterly is now retreating. It is low pressure in the Atlantic that is winning the battle for now, drawing back in the mild air from the south west along with some spells of rain.
"It is the feel of the weather and the change we will notice, and as long as the air will continue from this direction, we will have temperatures above average. With air from Africa and a bit of sunshine next weekend somewhere may hit 17°C. Talk about one extreme to another."
BBC Wales forecaster Sue Charles said: "After the wintry weather over the past week, it is looking much milder over the next few days.
"Temperatures on Tuesday will be well above average and that is the trend and feeling much milder as we head towards the weekend."
The mild weather will mean more rain, with heavy rain forecast on Monday night into Tuesday morning and heavy rain forecast in Wales on Friday.
The Met Office forecast predicts: "Friday will likely be unsettled with strong southwesterly winds bringing heavy rain to many western areas, and the chance of some light rainfall and mild temperatures nearly nationwide."
This is how cold it got last week:
Welsh forecaster Derek Brockway added: "Anyone missing the 'Beast from the East'? Feeling milder on Monday.12 or 13°C in Cardiff this afternoon!
"Often mild or very mild this week and next. Cooler Thursday. It may turn colder again towards the end of the month but dry and settled with a chilly start to March."
The Met Office long range forecast for Sunday, February 28, to Sunday, March 14, says that there is a "signal for higher than average pressure to sit close to or over the UK, with likely drier and more settled conditions prevailing."
The UK's weather agency added: "Temperatures are likely to return back to around, if not below-average with a slightly greater chance of cold spells during this time, bringing an increased threat of widespread frost and a very uncertain chance of snow.
"Towards mid-March, there are signs of returning to a more unsettled period, with milder interludes more likely once more."
Weather for your area by postcode:
Five-day weather forecast for Wales:
Today:
A grey and in places foggy start, with some patches slow to clear. A largely dry, bright and mild day following, with a freshening breeze. Perhaps the off shower in the west for a time. Maximum temperature 13°C.
Tonight:
Inclement conditions from the evening onwards, as winds strengthen and bands of rain push across the country, sometimes heavy. Risk of gales in exposed areas. Minimum temperature 8 °C.
Tuesday:
Overnight rain soon clears, leaving behind heavy showers and bright spells. Breezy throughout, but turning drier in the evening. Maximum temperature 10°C.
Outlook for Wednesday to Friday:
Bright and blustery Wednesday with showers, occasionally heavy. Becoming milder with heavy rain overnight into Thursday, with further showers and sunny spells. Strong winds and heavy rain Friday.
