South West set for dry Christmas as colder weather moves in

Much of the South West is set for a dry but cold Christmas period, with settled weather forecast to last from Christmas Day through to the weekend and towards New Year.

After a spell of more unsettled conditions early in the week, high pressure is expected to build across the UK from Christmas Eve, bringing calmer weather, lighter winds and lower temperatures.

Christmas Day

Christmas Day is forecast to be largely dry across Devon and Cornwall, with variable cloud and occasional sunny spells.
Daytime temperatures could struggle to rise above 2–4°C, and it will feel colder in a brisk easterly breeze.

There is a small risk of a light coastal shower, particularly along exposed south-western coasts later in the day, but widespread rain is not expected.

Boxing Day

Boxing Day looks set to remain dry and chilly, with frost possible in the morning and plenty of cloud at times.

Any sunshine will feel crisp, and temperatures are expected to stay below average.

Weekend outlook

The dry theme is likely to continue into the weekend, with high pressure remaining close to the UK.

While conditions should stay settled, forecasters warn of overnight frost and patchy fog, which could linger into the mornings in rural areas.