The hurricane has strengthened into a Category 4 storm in the Atlantic Ocean and although it will not directly hit the UK, it will trigger a period of unsettled weather and a drop in temperatures as it passes.

Colder conditions are likely to be worst in areas of Northern Ireland and Scotland.

In its latest long-range forecast for the period October 8-17, the Met Office said: “The forecast period is expected to be predominantly unsettled, with frequent bouts of wind and rain associated with areas of low pressure.”

“Frequent showers, particularly over southern areas, will likely (but not definitely in this area) lead to more widespread rainfall and strong winds associated with the remnants of Hurricane Kirk later in the week.”

“Scotland and Northern Ireland are likely to get colder and rainy more quickly and the colder weather (perhaps some sleet/snow in the Scottish mountains) will most likely gradually work its way south following the clearance of the former Kirk area.

“A calmer interlude is then possible, but towards the end of the period further periods of wind and rain are likely to arrive from the west, again with a focus on southern areas.”

Before Kirk arrives, cloudy and patchy rain is forecast for Northern Ireland and western Scotland on Saturday, becoming heavier in the evening as it reaches western England and Wales.

Sunday will be wet as a band of rain, which could become heavy at times, spreads eastward throughout the day.

As of midweek, Hurricane Kirk “poses the risk of bringing disruptive rain and wind” to some, although it will have lost its hurricane status by the time it reaches northwestern Europe, according to the Met Office.

Chris Bulmer, deputy chief meteorologist, said: “The resulting low pressure system will still have the potential to bring disruptive rain and winds to some areas, including parts of the UK, from the middle of next week.”

“Many details still need to be worked out about the exact process and timing of the system. Across the UK, parts of England and Wales face the greatest risk of heavy rain and strong winds on Wednesday and Thursday.”

“However, a further southerly orientation of this system, which is equally plausible at this point, would result in France being affected by the most disruptive conditions. The need for warnings will be further reviewed in the coming days, so it is important to stay up to date with the latest forecast.”

News: Friday, October 4th