The United Kingdom is preparing for another significant winter weather event, with forecasters predicting a 'snow bomb' that could deposit up to 15 inches (38 centimetres) of snow in parts of the country later this month.
Widespread Disruption Forecast
According to data from WX Charts, maps for January 20 have turned white, indicating heavy snowfall is on the way. The wintry conditions are expected to return from around 6am on Tuesday, January 20, bringing with it the potential for widespread disruption.
The bone-chilling conditions are likely to sweep across all four Home Counties, with temperatures predicted to plummet to a teeth-chattering -4°C. Charts show England north of Birmingham blanketed in white, with the north east and north west regions expected to be particularly badly hit.
Scotland in the Firing Line
Scotland is forecast to be the worst-hit nation. The modelling suggests a staggering 15 inches of snow could be dumped on Fort William. Both Scotland and Wales are also at risk of a significant dusting from the impending weather system.
The Met Office's forecast for the preceding days sets the scene. Their outlook for Monday, January 12 describes a wet and windy morning for northern Scotland, with drier conditions elsewhere mixed with sunshine and showers. The afternoon is expected to be cloudy for many with longer spells of rain developing.
Unsettled Week Ahead
The forecast for Tuesday, January 13 adds that it will be a little colder, with sunshine and blustery showers across Scotland and Northern Ireland. England and Wales will see further spells of potentially heavy rain.
Looking further ahead from Wednesday to Friday (January 14-16), the Met Office predicts a frosty but dry and bright start on Wednesday. Wet and windy weather is then expected to push northeastwards through Thursday, followed by blustery showers on Friday, with milder conditions in the south.
The BBC's forecast aligns, noting that Monday and Tuesday will be relatively mild but changeable. They state: "The rest of the week should remain unsettled with temperatures near or above the January average, so laying snow should quickly thaw." However, they also hint at a potent low-pressure system approaching late in the week, which could bring heavy rain, strong winds, and snow over higher ground in northern Scotland—a precursor to the more significant event forecast for January 20.
Residents across the UK, especially in the identified risk zones, are advised to monitor official weather warnings from the Met Office and prepare for potential travel disruption and cold weather impacts later this month.
