Arctic blast to hit UK after balmy bank holiday weekend

WorldEnvironment
5 May 2026 • 6:19 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Arctic blast to hit UK after balmy bank holiday weekend

  • An Arctic blast is set to bring significantly colder temperatures across the UK this week, following a warm bank holiday weekend.
  • Northerly winds on Tuesday and Wednesday will cause early morning temperatures to drop, potentially reaching -5C in rural northern areas.
  • Wednesday is forecast to be the coldest day, with temperatures up to 5 degrees below the May average, prompting a warning for gardeners about damaging frost.
  • The cold spell will gradually ease towards the end of the week, with temperatures rising slightly to 14-15C in the south by Thursday.
  • While Friday morning may see strong sunshine and temperatures up to 16-18C, showers are possible across the entire UK by the afternoon.

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