Northern Ireland weekend weather outlook as dry and mild November continues

After a week of unseasonably warm weather for this time of year, forecasters say this mild trend will continue over the next few days, with little change on the horizon.

Temperatures reached 18°C in both Derry and Dublin on Wednesday, well above the seasonal average. Despite earlier reports hinting at snowfall as soon as November 19th, the Met Office has downplayed the likelihood of widespread snow across the UK in the next couple of weeks.

The forecaster suggests that although we're set for some colder weather, temperatures are likely to hover around or above the seasonal average.

READ MORE: Details of winter preparedness plan across NI's health and social care

READ MORE: Bookies outline odds of a White Christmas in Northern Ireland this year

After a mainly dry and cloudy start on Friday, here's what to expect for the coming days in Northern Ireland, according to the Met Office:

Today:

A rather cloudy day with the chance of a little light rain or drizzle, this mainly in the east. Best chance of any brightness along the north coast and the far west. Mild. Maximum temperature 13°C.

Tonight:

Cloudy this evening with occasional drizzle. The rest of the night will remain cloudy with the chance of a little drizzle but many places dry. Mild. Minimum temperature 9°C.

Saturday:

Little change, remaining cloudy with the odd patch of drizzle but many places will be dry. Maximum temperature 12°C.

Outlook for Sunday to Tuesday:

Cloud a little rain at first on Sunday otherwise dry and sunny. Remaining dry with some sunshine into early next week.

UK long range weather forecast: Tuesday 12th November - Thursday 21st November

Likely still a good deal of dry weather during the middle of next week. Most areas should be largely dry with a good chance of sunny spells but also scope for overnight frost in clearer areas. The influence of high pressure is likely to decline through the course of next week with an increasing chance of showers or longer spells of rain, initially more likely in the east.

However, there is currently significant uncertainty in how quickly conditions turn more unsettled. Thereafter, likely more mixed conditions with some wetter, windier weather at times but also some drier interludes bringing the chance of morning fog patches. Temperatures overall around average though with potential for some rather cold spells.

For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our What's On newsletter.