Met Office issues ‘jet stream’ warning with ‘strongest winds’ of entire winter

The has issued an as a powerful jet stream is set to surge across the North Atlantic this week, bringing some of the strongest winds of the winter season to the UK.

The weather event, fueled by recent , will steer a deep area of low pressure toward British shores, signalling a return to unsettled and potentially disruptive conditions by Friday.

The jet stream’s intensification is expected to unleash heavy rainfall and strong gales, with forecasters cautioning that the conditions could disrupt travel and outdoor activities.

Affected areas may experience localized flooding and delays, particularly in northern regions, where snowfall may also add to the disruption.

In a tweet, said: “A powerful jet stream will develop above the North Atlantic this week, with perhaps the strongest winds of the winter so far This means a return to wet and windy conditions in the UK by Friday with some disruptive weather likely.”

Following Friday’s weather escalation, the unsettled pattern is likely to persist into February.

This period will feature bouts of heavy rain, strong winds, and occasional lulls, accompanied by fluctuating temperatures that may feel milder but still brisk in the gusty conditions.

Meteorologists have flagged the likelihood of weather warnings being issued over the coming days and have not ruled out the possibility of a named storm developing. Travelers and residents are advised to monitor updates and prepare for potential impacts.

In a detailed forecast for the coming week, the explained: “The change to much more unsettled conditions will begin on Friday as a deep area of low pressure, which is yet to develop, will be steered towards the UK on a powerful Jet Stream – fuelled by the recent cold spell over North America.

“A wet and windy few days are likely, with some snow in the north for a time, and then a continuation of these periods of rain followed by showers, often accompanied by strong winds, looks likely for the rest of the month and the start of February. There is the potential for weather warnings or even a named storm at some point.

“Temperatures at least should recover in most places, ending up a little above average, though admittedly not feeling like it at times.”

This marks a sharp transition from the relatively calm week in January, signalling a dynamic and potentially hazardous end to the month.