Snow showers will hit on Easter Sunday as an Arctic blast brings freezing temperatures just days after Brits basked in some of the hottest March weather in 50 years.
Temperatures across much of England and Wales climbed to over 20C this week, peaking at 24C in London.
But the mercury will plunge to freezing in the capital by Easter Monday, as colder air spreading from the north of the country arrives.
The Met Office said it’s not unusual to see big swings in temperature across the UK in spring, however there will be a notable change in temperature as the warm air across the south is displaced.
The hot spell, which brought the hottest March day since 1968 on Tuesday, coincided with relaxed Covid rules and partygoers enjoyed the sun as they met up with pals in the rule of six.
Met Office deputy chief meteorologist, Mark Sidaway, said: “After a settled, warm spell with plenty of sunshine particularly across England and Wales our weather will take a notable change in direction later in the weekend.
"Very cold Arctic air will move in from the north west through Sunday, bringing snow showers and freezing overnight temperatures. The snow showers will predominantly affect the north and west of the UK.
"The south and east will likely remain drier but still cold with a lower chance of wintry showers.”
Sunny spells will still be prevalent in the South East and South West on Thursday, with the warmest weather here.
However temperatures will fall sharply over Easter, dropping to -1C in Bristol on Easter Monday and 0C in London.
Today
Cloud across southern Scotland, Northern Ireland, Wales and central England tending to break to allow sunny spells. Sunny and very warm in the southwest, though breezy. Much cooler elsewhere.
Tonight
Cloud pushing into north Scotland and east England with good clear spells elsewhere. Frost likely in places, particularly parts of Northern Ireland, southern Scotland and the far north of England.
Friday
A fine and sunny day for many though more cloud over eastern and northern parts. Breezy in the east and feeling cool along the coasts.
Outlook for Saturday to Monday
Mostly dry with sunny spells and some overnight frost on Saturday. Becoming much colder and windy with rain followed by showers on Sunday, with showers turning increasingly wintry by Monday.
