The Met Office has outlined a series of 25 specific dates when wintry conditions could return to parts of the United Kingdom throughout the latter half of January and the beginning of February.
Potential Snowfall Windows Identified
In its latest extended forecast, the national weather service indicates that Scotland, northern England, and north-eastern England are the areas most likely to experience further snowfall. The period in focus runs from Tuesday, 13 January to Friday, 6 February.
The overall pattern for the end of January and start of February is described as characteristically unpredictable. Forecasters currently give a slight preference to a pattern of winds from the south-west. This would typically bring unsettled weather, with periods of rain, strong winds, and milder temperatures, including the potential for some very powerful gusts.
A Lingering Chance of Colder Conditions
However, the Met Office emphasises that an alternative scenario remains possible. There is a recognised chance that drier and colder air could push into the UK from the east or north-east. Should this happen, it would bring with it an associated risk of snowfall.
Looking specifically at the period beginning 13 January, forecasters now have much greater confidence that milder air will spread across the country. The residual cold air from recent weeks is expected to finally clear from the far north-east during Monday, 12 January.
Initial Shift to Milder, Windier Weather
This initial phase is likely to feature brisk south-westerly winds, creating a distinctly different feel to the recent cold spell. The forecast predicts occasional rain or showers but also suggests there will be significant dry weather. Conditions will often be cloudy, though some brighter intervals are expected, particularly in areas sheltered by high ground.
Temperatures during this milder phase are forecast to be widely above average for the time of year. This will lead to a rapid thaw of any remaining snow still lying across northern parts of Scotland.
Longer-Term Uncertainty Remains
For the subsequent period from 23 January to 6 February, the Met Office reiterates the inherent uncertainty. The forecast repeats that a south-westerly regime is marginally more likely, bringing changeable, wet, windy, and mild conditions.
Yet, the crucial caveat is restated: the possibility of a switch to colder, drier easterly or north-easterly flows persists, keeping the threat of snow on the table for the final week of January and the start of February.
