As we move through late October, the UK is set to experience a dynamic mix of weather conditions.
The coming 10 days will bring a blend of wet and windy spells, a notable drop in temperatures, and even the potential for some sleet and snow over higher ground.
Here’s what you can expect, based on the latest forecast models and expert analysis.
Showers and uncertainty
As Storm Benjamin clears eastwards on Thursday and into Friday, the UK will find itself in the system’s backwash. This means further showers, particularly across eastern parts of the country. Another cut-off low is expected to develop and move across Northern Ireland, bringing further showers to Northern Ireland and feeding rain into western parts of England and Wales as Friday progresses.
Model differences and the Scottish rain risk
Forecast models are not in full agreement about the extent of rainfall in eastern Scotland. The Met Office model suggests some rain is likely, while the ECMWF (European model) predicts much drier conditions. The American GFS model, on the other hand, paints a wetter picture, with the potential for impactful rain across northern and eastern Scotland.
Wet and windy for some this afternoon, especially in eastern England where travel disruption is possible locally ⚠️
— Met Office (@metoffice) October 23, 2025
Showers possible elsewhere, but some drier and sunnier periods too, these most prolonged across western Scotland 🌤️
Feeling chilly in the breeze 📉 pic.twitter.com/H61Yv8SX03
Previous Met Office runs have shown scenarios similar to the GFS, so while significant impacts are not expected, it is important to keep a close eye on developments, as a slower clearance of Benjamin could bring heavier rain further west.
A colder turn: Arctic air and the risk of snow
As Storm Benjamin moves away, it will usher in a change in wind direction, drawing in a northerly flow and bringing cold arctic air across the UK. This will cause temperatures to drop sharply, with brisk, strong winds making it feel particularly raw and chilly as we head into the weekend.
The freezing level will fall, especially across Scotland, dropping to around 450 metres above sea level. With some high ground well above this level, there is a reasonable chance of sleet and snow over the Scottish Highlands and Grampians. Further south, the risk is much lower, but isolated pockets of frost are possible where skies clear and winds ease.
Weekend outlook: Chilly, with showers and frost
Saturday will start on a chilly note, with the potential for frost in rural areas and even in some towns and cities. Showers will be most frequent in areas exposed to the northerly wind, particularly across Scotland, Northern Ireland, and coastal parts of Wales and southwest England. While any sleet or snow is unlikely to be heavy or disruptive, it is not unusual for this time of year, and those heading to the hills or mountains should be prepared.
Temperatures will remain below average, with high single figures or just reaching double digits. Factoring in the wind, it will feel even colder, especially in northern and eastern Scotland.
READ MORE: Met Office weather stations: How we measure the weather
Into next week: A changeable and uncertain pattern
Looking further ahead, the weather remains changeable. After a cold and frosty start on Sunday, a new weather system is likely to push in from the northwest, bringing cloud, rain, and a gradual lift in temperatures. However, there is uncertainty about the timing and extent of this system, with some models bringing rain in more quickly than others.
The early part of next week is expected to be unsettled but not especially impactful, with a mix of wet and dry spells and temperatures still on the chilly side. As we move towards the middle of the week, there is potential for a transition to quieter conditions, particularly in the south, as higher pressure tries to build in.
Model comparisons and the trend towards milder air
Comparing the Met Office and ECMWF models, both suggest a broadly similar pattern, with low pressure to the north and higher pressure to the south. The ECMWF hints at a more amplified ridge, which could bring drier and quieter weather midweek, while the Met Office model keeps things a little more unsettled.
By the end of the week, both models indicate a return to more mobile, unsettled conditions, with low pressure nearby. Importantly, both agree on a shift in wind direction, drawing in milder air from the south and leading to a rise in temperatures as we approach Halloween.
In summary, the next 10 days will bring a mix of wet and windy spells, a notable drop in temperatures, and the risk of frost and even some sleet or snow over higher ground in Scotland. While the weather will remain changeable, there are signs that temperatures will rise again towards the end of the period.
Keep up to date with weather warnings, and you can find the latest forecast on our website, on YouTube, by following us on X and Facebook, as well as on our mobile app which is available for iPhone from the App store and for Android from the Google Play store.
