The Madden-Julian Oscillation emerged over the Maritime Continent this week (Phase 4) and has rapidly strengthened over the past four days. Latest forecasts of the strength and phase of the MJO show that is is expected to move into Phase 5 with a strong signal on 10th January. It is expected

1 - Windy across the country on Saturday morning with heavy outbreaks of rain for Ireland, Scotland and Northern Ireland. 2 - Rain spreads into Wales and northern parts of England through Saturday afternoon. Staying windy across the country. Dry but cloudy for central and southern England. 3 - Through Saturday night into Sunday

1 - Monday sees a band of heavy rain sweep from west to east across the British Isles. Very windy, with local gales, for northern and western areas. 2 - Gales for some western and northern areas once again on Tuesday with outbreaks of rain for Ireland, Scotland and Northern Ireland.