Windy and cold spell to come

Overnight frosts are possible

Wind warnings have been issued for Greater Manchester and across the north west for Saturday (27 November) as strong winds and heavy rain, and even sleet and snow in some places, will hit the country.

Potentially disruptive gales could cause some delays to road, rail, air and ferry transport with a small chance exposed roads and bridges could close, and there is a slight chance of some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs and damage to temporary structures such as Christmas markets.

By Sunday any showers will mainly become confined to eastern coastal areas but there could still be some snow over the hills.

Temperatures will be widely below average with daytime temperatures in single figures; overnight frosts are possible.

The unsettled pattern looks likely to continue into next week with showers and rain, possibly falling as snow over hills, in the north at times. 

Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist, Chris Almond, said: “Gusts of wind are likely to reach 50 to 60 mph widely, with 70 to 80 mph possible in coastal locations, particularly in parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland.”

“As well as strong winds, rain will also move south across the country on Friday, with showers following turning increasingly to hill snow in the north. 

“This wintry mix of showers will continue on Saturday, and although snow is possible almost anywhere away from the far-south, accumulations are likely to be confined to hills.”