Britain is set for a wet and windy bank holiday weekend as high pressure gives way to Atlantic weather systems, ending the prolonged dry spell that has dominated recent weeks.

Wednesday: Dry Spell Breaks

Southern England is already seeing the shift, with intense rain showers and possible thunderstorms expected to bring 10-15mm of rainfall per hour, according to the Met Office. Northern regions remain mostly dry and sunny, with highs of 22–23°C.

Tonight, conditions will improve slightly, with clear skies and a chance of mist or fog in rural areas, per the Royal Meteorological Society.

Thursday: Brief Respite

High pressure will momentarily return on Thursday, bringing sunny spells to much of the country. However, northeast England may still experience patchy rain and cloud, while southern counties risk isolated afternoon showers, as reported by ECMWF.

Overnight, frost may develop in colder rural areas, forecasters at the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology warn.

Friday: Weather Turns Unsettled

Friday starts bright but rain is expected to arrive from the west by afternoon, initially affecting Northern Ireland, before pushing eastward into the UK mainland by the evening. The National Oceanography Centre advises that the west coast will bear the brunt of incoming wet weather.

Weekend Outlook: Wind, Rain and Coastal Gales

According to Deputy Chief Meteorologist David Oliver, Atlantic low-pressure systems will dominate the weekend. Heavy rain and gales are forecast, particularly in the northwest, with coastal areas at risk of flooding and disruption.

Saturday and Sunday will bring blustery showers, although southern and southeastern regions may enjoy occasional dry spells, per the World Meteorological Organization.

“We expect widespread showers and strengthening winds, so prepare for difficult driving conditions and localised flooding,” said Oliver.

Bank Holiday Monday: More Showers Likely

Monday will continue with unsettled conditions, including intermittent sunshine and thundery bursts, particularly across the north and west. Temperatures will dip to slightly below seasonal averages, according to the Environment Agency.

The half-term week will remain changeable, though UK Climate Projections suggest occasional warmer, drier breaks between frontal systems.

What You Should Do

• Check forecasts regularly via trusted sources like the Met Office

• Plan indoor activities such as museum visits, recommends the Royal Geographical Society

• Pack waterproofs and layer up if heading outdoors, especially in northern and coastal regions

• Avoid cliff paths and exposed shorelines during coastal gales

Economic and Social Impact

This weather shift coincides with broader challenges in the UK, including inflation at 3.5%, putting extra pressure on household budgets. Analysts say the downpours may reduce outdoor leisure spending, though indoor venues could benefit.

Social Media Sentiment

Posts on X highlight public concern:

• “So much for the BBQ! Wet bank holiday ahead ?️ #UKWeather”

• “Time to find some indoor fun. Thanks for the heads-up, Met Office! #BankHolidayPlans”