The Met Office has provided an update on the weather phenomenon termed “anticyclonic gloom” and disclosed its anticipated conclusion date.
Meteorologists have indicated that some parts of the UK may experience intermittent periods of sunshine on Saturday, following a stretch of cloudy and gloomy weather. The prevailing gloom, attributed to an anticyclone or high-pressure system settled over the region, has resulted in overcast conditions this week.
The occurrence of anticyclonic gloom is a result of air descending towards the ground under high pressure, creating a thin layer of moisture or low cloud near the surface that impedes the penetration of sunlight. Although Friday is expected to remain cloudy with light rain in certain areas, Saturday could bring brighter conditions as the high pressure gradually shifts towards the North Sea.
Meteorologist Ellie Glaisyer from the Met Office mentioned, “We are likely to witness the sunniest spells, primarily in eastern regions. The exact locations of the sunniest intervals are uncertain, but there is a possibility of a brighter outlook compared to recent days.”
While cautioning that many areas may still experience cloud cover, Glaisyer noted that Saturday could have “more breaks in the cloud compared to recent days.” She further anticipated a damp start to Sunday, with widespread rain and increasing winds throughout the day.
Looking ahead, Glaisyer emphasized a transition to a variable weather pattern early next week, characterized by sunny intervals, heavy showers, and potentially prolonged rainy spells. She acknowledged the ongoing absence of a full day of sunshine in the forecast.
The Met Office’s outlook from Saturday to Monday predicts a shift towards wet and windy conditions in western regions following some clear intervals. Subsequently, unsettled weather is foreseen, with sporadic heavy showers and blustery conditions.
The extended weather forecast from October 21 to October 30 anticipates continued unsettled conditions, with low-pressure systems bringing bouts of rain or showers, likely accompanied by strong winds intermittently. Temperature levels are projected to remain near average overall, with fluctuations contingent on the paths of low-pressure systems. Towards the end of the period, a shift to a slightly cooler and more showery northwesterly regime is expected as high pressure builds over the Atlantic and low pressure centers to the east of the UK.