Brits are being warned to brace for a changeable Easter bank holiday weekend, with the Met Office forecasting a mix of rain, sunshine, and showers across the UK. The latest predictions suggest varied conditions by region, which could have an impact on holidaymakers, travel plans, and outdoor events.

Wednesday: Rain Moving North

Following a wet and windy Tuesday night—with Dartmoor recording over 70mm of rain—a slow-moving band of rain is now pushing northwards. Western and northern parts of the UK, including Northern Ireland, are seeing the heaviest downpours, prompting a yellow weather warning for rain.

Further south, brighter intervals may develop later in the day, but scattered showers remain likely. Blustery winds will keep things feeling chilly, particularly under cloud cover. Rural frost is possible overnight.

Thursday: Brighter with Risk of Showers

Thursday brings a brief improvement, with many areas expected to enjoy brighter spells and slightly milder temperatures. However, showers—some heavy—may still hit the south and west. Scotland could see lingering rain for most of the day.

Easter Weekend Outlook

The Met Office has warned of a “mixed bag” for the long Easter weekend, marking a stark contrast to the sunny spell enjoyed across the UK last weekend.

Deputy Chief Meteorologist Steven Skeates said:
“The Easter weekend is set to bring changeable weather for many. Some areas may experience near dry conditions all weekend, whilst others may see heavy rain.”

Here’s what to expect day by day:

Good Friday (18 April):

• A low-pressure system is likely to bring heavy, possibly disruptive rain to Southwest England, Northern Ireland, and South Wales.

• Drivers should expect spray and surface water on roads.

• Travel disruption is possible.

Saturday:

• Rain may linger in western and southwestern areas.

• Elsewhere, sunny spells and light winds are likely.

• Temperatures will be around seasonal averages.

Easter Sunday:

• Expected to be the driest day of the weekend.

• Bright or sunny spells are forecast for most of the UK.

• Cloud and isolated showers may persist in the far south and west.

Easter Monday:

• A return to unsettled conditions with rain and showers spreading northwards, potentially heavy in places.

• The Met Office notes uncertainty in Monday’s forecast.

Social Media Reaction

Reactions online reflect typical British humour in the face of unpredictable weather:

• One X user wrote: “Hoping for some sun this Easter, but packing the brolly just in case!”

• On Reddit, another commented: “Typical British weather—four seasons in one weekend.”

Travel and Safety Advice

The Met Office and road authorities are urging caution:

• Check Met Office forecasts before travelling.

• Prepare for wet and windy conditions, especially on Friday.

• Carry waterproof clothing and extra layers.

• Drive carefully—visibility may be reduced on wet roads.

Looking Ahead

Forecast confidence remains low into next week. Southern regions could continue to experience showers, while the north might see drier and cooler nights.

Key Takeaways

• Best Day: Easter Sunday looks promising for outdoor plans.

• Worst Day: Good Friday could bring disruptive rainfall in parts.

• Plan Ahead: Stay flexible and check weather apps frequently.

Whatever your Easter weekend plans, from garden egg hunts to road trips, make sure you’re ready for whatever weather the UK throws your way.