Northern Ireland set for significant cold spell

A cold snap is approaching Northern Ireland. Temperatures are expected to drop from approximately four degrees above average to four degrees below average or even lower by the start of next week. Currently, no weather warnings have been issued for the island of Ireland by either the Met Office or Met Éireann. Nevertheless, the Met Office stated: “There’s a major change in the weather from this weekend, as an early winter cold spell arrives bringing the potential for disruption for some next week.” The weekend will see a gradual decrease in temperatures, making Sunday feel more wintry. A low-pressure system will move in, bringing more unsettled weather from Sunday, along with a surge of cold air originating near the Arctic. Met Office deputy chief meteorologist Rebekah Hicks explained: “A notable early winter cold spell will arrive across the north from Sunday and will likely reach all parts of the UK by midweek.“Temperatures will drop as a northerly airflow develops, bringing in colder Arctic air. This introduces the possibility of snow, initially over high ground in the north from Sunday, with gusty winds also a potential hazard.” Other winter hazards anticipated include frost, ice, and wind chill. Although the air will certainly be cold enough for snow by next week, the specific details regarding where sleet and snow will fall, and in what quantities, remain highly uncertain. This change in weather is expected to be noticeable, as most of November has been relatively mild so far, and the meteorological winter season officially begins on 1 December. It is advisable to stay updated with the forecast, as weather warnings may be issued in the next few days. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.