An early blast of winter is expected to sweep across the UK, bringing cold air, potential snowfall, and windy conditions that may cause disruptions next week, according to the Met Office.

While high pressure remains dominant this weekend, ensuring largely dry but cloudy conditions, significant changes are on the horizon as temperatures start to drop. Friday will remain mostly calm, though windier in the north by evening as colder Arctic air begins to descend. By Saturday, rain will begin moving southward, accompanied by a sharp drop in temperatures, with the possibility of hill snow in northern regions.

Sunday will see an intensification of this cold snap as low-pressure moves in, ushering in an “unsettled and much colder” weather pattern. According to Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Rebekah Hicks, the cold front will introduce “a northerly airflow” and bring “colder Arctic air” across the UK, with initial snowfalls likely confined to high ground in northern areas. The cold air and gusty winds could pose hazards, especially as conditions intensify by midweek.

Forecasters are closely monitoring the development of this weather system, with computer models currently projecting multiple scenarios. “There is a lot of uncertainty in what might happen after Sunday,” Hicks said. “It’s possible we could see more widespread rain, hill snow, and stronger winds. Widespread snowfall across lower ground is still uncertain but not entirely out of the question.”

The Met Office has advised residents to stay informed, as wintry hazards like snow and ice may lead to potential weather warnings early next week. “The whole of the UK is likely to experience a spell of several days of cold, potentially disruptive weather,” Hicks added.