A major meteorological event linked to the infamous 2018 'Beast from the East' could be on its way back to the United Kingdom, according to weather experts. The phenomenon, known as a Sudden Stratospheric Warming (SSW), might occur as soon as next week, raising the possibility of a significant cold spell.
What is Sudden Stratospheric Warming?
Netweather forecaster Nick Finnis has indicated that the SSW could take place around November 25 and 26. This event is triggered by a significant warming of the stratosphere starting from the Canadian side of the polar region. Mr Finnis explains that this warming 'looks to displace the stratospheric polar vortex from its usual home over the arctic towards northern Russia and north-east Europe'.
This disruption of the polar vortex is a critical process. When it is displaced, it can act like a domino, pushing cold Arctic air much further south than usual, directly into northern Europe and potentially the UK.
Potential Impact on UK Weather
If the Sudden Stratospheric Warming occurs, the UK could see an increased chance of colder and wintry conditions from the end of November and through December. Cold Arctic air could be pushed further south into northern Europe, leading to bouts of frost, snow, and temperatures well below the seasonal average.
However, forecasters are careful to note that there are no guarantees of colder weather because of an SSW. While it raises the probability, the exact impact on the UK's weather is not certain and depends on other atmospheric factors.
Short-Term Forecast from the Met Office
Looking at the more immediate forecast for mid-November, the Met Office predicts a shift from the current cold snap. They state that after a widespread frost, the UK will see a 'transition during the day to less cold and more generally unsettled conditions as Atlantic weather fronts make inroads'.
This will bring spells of rain across the country, with the wettest conditions likely in southern areas. The forecast also indicates the potential for windy weather, again more probable in the south. For the latter part of November, temperatures are expected to return closer to the average for this time of year, perhaps even becoming mild at times in the south, before any potential effects from the SSW might be felt.
