UK weather forecast: Heavy rain expected to lash Britain on seventh weekend of lockdown

Britons urged to stay at home no matter what weekend weather brings

Spring weather is in full swing as plenty of April showers are expected to sweep across the UK in the coming days.

As the country enters yet another week of the coronavirus lockdown, the unseasonably warm weather Britons enjoyed last week has made way for fresher feeling air and rain that is much needed by parks and gardens.

Temperatures throughout the country have returned to what is about average for the time of year, with highs of just 13C expected in London on Thursday.

There will be a clear bright start for London and southeast England, but heavy showers are expected to develop over much of the country as well as blustery winds that could reach up to 40 mph in the south coasts due to a low pressure system.

According to the Met Office, several places in southern Scotland may see some hail and “the odd rumble of thunder”, and there will be more persistent rain over parts of Scotland.

The rain will likely continue well into the evening and even overnight over many parts of the UK, with northern England and Scotland seeing some clear spells and frost.

On Friday, more changeable weather is on its way with cloudy skies and heavy showers expected, although there may be sunny spells and could be an overall drier day for more. Temperatures in the morning will range from 3C to 8C, with highs of 14C later in the day.

The weekend brings slightly warmer temperatures, hovering around 16C to 17C in the south and 14C to 15C in Scotland and Northern Ireland. Conditions remain cool with a mix of sunshine and showers on Saturday.

Sunday morning is expected to be dry and sunny, but rain is likely to develop in the evening. Forecasters expect next week to be clearer, sunnier and warmer.

The coronavirus lockdown is ongoing, so no matter what the weather may be, the government urges the public to continue following social distancing guidelines and stay at home wherever possible.