Coldest early September since 1986 in Katesbridge

Temperatures fell to -1.4°C in Katesbridge, County Down

Residents of Katesbridge, County Down, woke up to an unseasonably chilly start on Friday.

Temperatures in the hamlet fell to -1.4°C overnight, the lowest temperature recorded so early in September since 1986.

It also marked the earliest frost in Northern Ireland since 24 August 2020.

While unusual, Katesbridge is no stranger to cold conditions, regularly recording some of the lowest temperatures in Northern Ireland.

Known as a “frost hollow,” its location in a low-lying area allows cold air to accumulate, resulting in chilly mornings like this one.

However, the drop to -1.4°C is significant, as September typically brings milder conditions, with frosts not generally expected until later in the autumn.

The recent cold spell will be brief as warmer air is expected to move across Northern Ireland on Friday night, bringing much milder conditions.

In fact, temperatures in Katesbridge on Friday night are predicted to be about 12°C higher, with lows of approximately 10°C.

Daytime temperatures are forecast to climb closer to 20°C this weekend, providing a stark contrast to the frost.