Londoners should brace for a prolonged spell of damp and chilly conditions, with the latest BBC weather forecast predicting almost two weeks of rain and sleet for the capital. However, forecasters offer a significant silver lining: a steady rise in temperatures over the same period.
A Damp Fortnight With a Warming Trend
The unsettled spell is set to begin on Wednesday, January 7, and is currently forecast to last until Saturday, January 17. During this time, residents can expect predominantly light rain and sleet, accompanied by light winds or gentle breezes.
Despite the persistent precipitation, there is positive news on the thermometer. Recent days have seen temperatures plunge to as low as -1C, prompting concern. However, the forecast indicates a consistent warming trend throughout the coming days.
By the conclusion of the period on January 17, London is expected to see daytime highs reach a comparatively mild 8C.
Full BBC London Weather Forecast
The detailed day-by-day outlook for London is as follows:
- Wednesday, January 7: Sleet and light winds, 4C.
- Thursday, January 8: Light rain and light winds, 6C.
- Friday, January 9: Light rain and a gentle breeze, 6C.
- Saturday, January 10: Sleet and light winds, 6C.
- Sunday, January 11: Light rain and a gentle breeze, 7C.
- Monday, January 12: Light rain and a gentle breeze, 9C.
- Tuesday, January 13: Light rain and a gentle breeze, 8C.
- Wednesday, January 14: Light rain and a gentle breeze, 9C.
- Thursday, January 15: Light rain and a gentle breeze, 9C.
- Friday, January 16: Light rain and a gentle breeze, 9C.
- Saturday, January 17: Light rain and a light breeze, 8C.
Health Warnings and Support for Vulnerable
The recent cold snap has already triggered official responses. Mayor of London Sadiq Khan activated the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP), which opens up indoor beds for rough sleepers during periods of dangerously low temperatures.
Nationally, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has an amber cold health alert in force for England until January 6. Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, emphasised the risks.
“As the colder weather sets in it is vital to check in on friends, family and neighbours that are most vulnerable,” he stated. “The forecast temperatures can have a serious impact on the health of some people, leading to increased risk of heart attacks, strokes and chest infections, particularly for individuals over the age of 65 and those with pre-existing health conditions.”
Furthermore, the Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings for snow and ice across other parts of the UK, primarily affecting Scotland, parts of the North, the East Coast, the West Country, and Wales.
While the capital prepares for a wet and dreary stretch, the rising temperatures will offer some respite from the recent freezing conditions, marking a slow but steady shift towards milder winter weather.
