Britons anticipating pleasant weather this week should enjoy it while they can before an Arctic blast brings temperatures down to -6C. Following a weekend cold snap, a period of mild weather is expected as low pressure systems move northward, influenced by high-pressure systems from southern and central Europe.

The upcoming days are forecasted to be the warmest of the year so far, with temperatures expected to peak at 20C in western England and Wales on Wednesday, surpassing popular holiday destinations like Ibiza. While England may see temperatures reaching 18C widely, Northern Ireland and Scotland are likely to experience slightly cooler conditions.

Despite the temporary warmth, colder temperatures are expected to return at the end of the month as low-pressure systems usher in cold polar air. Scotland could see temperatures dropping to -5C, while Wales may experience lows of -6C, with other regions nearing or below freezing.

Predictions from WXCharts indicate heavy snowfall on March 30 in the Midlands, central and northern Wales, as well as potential flurries in northern England and Scotland. The Met Office’s forecast for March 21-30 suggests predominantly dry conditions at the start of the period, with temperatures around or slightly above average, although some areas may feel cooler due to the development of an easterly wind.

Following the brief warm spell, Chief Forecaster Dan Harris from the Met Office anticipates Wednesday to be the warmest day of the week for many regions, with temperatures possibly reaching 18-20C in parts of west Wales and western England. Clear skies during the day may lead to chilly nights, with some areas experiencing air frost after warmer daytime temperatures.