Londoners hoping for a sun-drenched Easter weekend may be in for a disappointment, as forecasters warn of a washout on Good Friday, bringing to a close the capital’s recent stretch of unseasonably warm and dry weather.
According to BBC Weather, light rain and a gentle breeze are expected throughout much of Friday, with temperatures dipping to around 16°C. The wet start to the long weekend marks a sharp contrast to the recent spell of sunshine and warmth, which saw thermometers climb to 19°C in the capital on Saturday.
The London Fire Brigade (LFB) had even been prompted to issue a public warning during the hot spell, urging residents to avoid lighting barbecues due to a heightened risk of grass and wildfires.
But the much-needed rainfall comes after what has been a remarkably dry March, with the Met Office confirming that England experienced its sixth driest March on record and Wales its fourth driest since records began in 1836.
The Met Office currently forecasts a 50 per cent chance of rain in London on Friday afternoon, with temperatures fluctuating between 15 and 17°C. Saturday and Sunday are expected to be drier, though not without cloud cover. Overcast skies and some brief sunny intervals are likely to dominate both days, with temperatures hovering around 16°C – enough to keep things comfortable for those venturing out for Easter festivities.
Despite Friday’s soggy outlook, a glimmer of optimism remains for the rest of the Easter Bank Holiday. Conditions are expected to improve by Saturday, although sunshine may be fleeting and interrupted by passing clouds.
Meanwhile, traffic chaos could overshadow the weather for millions of motorists. The AA has issued a warning for significant delays on the roads, with an estimated 19.1 million people expected to travel by car on Good Friday alone. Heavy congestion is also predicted across Easter Saturday and Sunday, with roughly 18.5 million and 18.2 million journeys anticipated, respectively.
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VisitEngland reports that around 10.6 million British adults are planning a UK getaway over the long weekend, as many opt for a domestic break rather than heading abroad. The surge in travel is expected to provide a substantial economic lift, with spending from the Easter period projected to contribute approximately £3.9 billion to the national economy.
While southern parts of the UK – including London – may see light showers, some areas further north could face heavier downpours and cooler conditions. However, those planning to brave the elements for a countryside walk or an outdoor Easter egg hunt are advised to keep a brolly close to hand but shouldn’t rule out moments of sunshine breaking through the clouds.
The recent record temperatures earlier this month peaked on April 4, when Otterbourne in Hampshire recorded a sweltering 23.7°C – the hottest day of the year so far. While similar highs are unlikely over Easter, the outlook remains far from wintery, offering a mixed but manageable weather scenario for holidaymakers.
In the end, while the rain may dampen some spirits on Good Friday, the rest of the Easter break looks set to offer a more pleasant – if slightly unpredictable – spring backdrop for those keen to make the most of the long weekend.
