Colder weather arriving for Christmas?

By Brian Gaze

[Published 06:45 17/12/2025]

The weather will remain unsettled over the next few days, but a big change is expected next week. Most computer models are now showing high pressure bringing drier weather, and an increasing number have it centred to the north of the UK. This would lead to an easterly flow, and although there isn’t much cold air over the continent at present, temperatures would be likely to take a dip.

14 day weather forecast video

Issued 16th December 2025

Showers 

Heavy rain in much of the UK

Outbreaks of rain spread across much of the UK today and they will be heavy at times, especially in the west. In East Anglia and the south east rain will be light and patchy, with some places remaining dry until the evening. In western coastal counties gales are likely and it will be windy generally.

Temperatures range from 8°C to 12°C. Check the weather radar for the most up-to-date view.

Christmas Countdown

Not long now until the big day, but is snow looking likely. Follow our Christmas Weather Forecast for regular updates as well as the chance to win premium membership to our website for the whole of 2026.

UKV, Wednesday 17th December [Tap animation to toggle cities]

Tonight:
The area of rain pushes southeastwards and drier conditions return to much of the UK. However, the rain is likely to linger in the south-eastern corner and East Anglia by morning, while showers push into Scotland. 

Tomorrow:
Heavy outbreaks of rain move northeastwards across the UK. Further flooding is likely in places. Winds strengthen, possibly to gale force in parts of southern and central Britain. 

UKV, Thursday 18th December [Tap animation to toggle cities]

Colder weather for Christmas?

Friday: Many places have a dry and bright day, but there will be showers in the north and west. Quite windy. Temperatures close to the December norm.  

Outlook: Changeable conditions continue at the weekend. Next week there are growing signs of high pressure becoming centred to the north of the UK and an easterly flow developing. This brings the potential for colder weather, but the details remain very uncertain and some computer models are still showing alternative scenarios. 

GFS overview for Fri 18th Dec - Sun 20th Dec

Yesterday's temperatures

The temperature league tables are for Tuesday 16th December 2025. Please note that our database does not include data from all of the official reporting stations in the UK.

Current temperatures vs Historical averages

Check the CET tracker for the latest information on how this month's temperatures compare to the Central England Temperature averages for 1961-1990, 1971-2000, 1981-2010, 1991-2020, and 1659-2020.