Just as it felt like spring had finally settled in, with Brits basking in sunshine and enjoying temperatures touching 20°C, the weather is about to pull a classic UK-style U-turn — and it’s a big one. A so-called “snow bomb” is headed our way, threatening to blanket parts of the Midlands, North, and Northeast in up to 7cm of snow.
The Met Office and weather mapping service Ventusky have both flagged this sudden shift, forecasting long spells of rain, thunder, and a major dip in temperature. Those enjoying the mild, almost balmy conditions across the country might want to dig their winter gear back out because things are about to get properly chilly again.
Birmingham looks set to take a direct hit on Sunday, April 20, with a solid covering of snow expected. Other cities likely to get a taste of the white stuff include Stoke-on-Trent, Leicester, Greater Manchester, Leeds, Bradford, and parts southwest of Newcastle. Stoke and Leicester, in particular, are set for heavier flurries, with up to 5cm expected to settle. Temperatures in these areas could drop to as low as 0°C, possibly hovering only slightly above freezing, reported the Mirror.
The Met Office’s latest long-range outlook, covering April 13 to April 22, suggests that this cold snap will roll in with a front moving southeast, bringing rain, showers, and an overall fresher feel. There’s even talk of a risk — albeit a low one — of thundery showers drifting in from the south, though forecasters say confidence is still a bit shaky on that front.
What is more certain is that the middle of April looks set to be wet, with some places potentially seeing heavy downpours, thunder, and even strong winds — especially across the south and west. The mild, settled spell we’ve just enjoyed is definitely on borrowed time, and the mercury is expected to drop back to something more typical for the season.
It’s a real turnaround considering how the week began. BBC’s weather expert Louise Lear had just been talking about how calm and sunny things were looking, with high pressure keeping the skies clear and winds light. She noted that some spots might hit 20°C, with the only chillier parts being the east coast near the North Sea.
But just as we were getting used to that early spring feel, Mother Nature’s throwing a curveball. So, if you’ve been soaking up the sun in your garden this week — enjoy it while it lasts. Winter’s making a cheeky return, and it’s not even fashionably late.
