Visit www.weatheronline.co.uk - the UK's most comprehensive internet weather - talk live to our forecasters for the latest forecast and weather news. Call 09061 991 189 (�1.50p/min)

Issued: 0830hrs Monday 4th April 2005
Duty forecaster: Simon Keeling

Springtime snow for many

For almost two weeks us forecaster have been viewing the possibility of a cold snap at the end of this week with a certain amount of scepticism. However, as that time approaches, computer models have been firming up on their initial ideas and the cold snap is looking increasingly likely.

The reason for the cold snap is that an area of low pressure will be passing through the country during Wednesday, and into the North Sea. High pressure will build to the west of Ireland, with an region of bitter northerly winds squeezed between these two pressure systems.

Our latest thoughts are that Scotland and Ireland will be first to see the cold weather on Thursday afternoon. This could turn rain to snow for a time, before clearing to wintry showers. Blizzards could occur on hills and mountains.

The area of rain will be clearing from England during Thursday evening and overnight, and gain this could turn to snow for a short time, especially over the hills of central and southern England and Wales, as it clears away.

Much colder weather then follows, bringing a bitter day on Friday. Snow showers may be frequent in Scotland, and through the east of England. Less frequent showers to the west as a ridge of high pressure builds into Ireland.

There is a question mark over how long the cold snap lasts, but at the moment I think that the ridge of high pressure should build in for Saturday, making it feel warmer.

Whatever the weather keep the sun shining!


Simon