The United Kingdom is preparing for an unusual weather event as latest forecasts indicate the arrival of a rare meteorological phenomenon known as freezing rain later this month.
What the Weather Maps Reveal
According to data from WXCharts analysed on November 11, weather maps have turned orange and white in their prediction for November 21, indicating the potential for this rare occurrence. The charts, generated using Met Desk data, show temperature levels dropping to -2°C in affected areas.
The phenomenon is expected to primarily impact parts of Scotland, with specific regions including areas around Fort William and Portree likely to experience the freezing rain. Meanwhile, other parts of Scotland such as Inverness, Dundee, Wick and Aberdeen may encounter snowy conditions instead.
Understanding Freezing Rain
Freezing rain represents a rare type of liquid precipitation that strikes cold surfaces and freezes almost immediately upon contact. The Met Office explains that this weather event typically begins as snow, ice, sleet or hail high in the atmosphere.
As these particles descend through a layer of air that's above 0°C, they melt into liquid water droplets. The crucial transformation occurs when these droplets then pass through a zone of sub-zero air just above the ground, becoming supercooled.
When these supercooled droplets hit surfaces at or below freezing point, they freeze instantly upon impact, creating a dangerous glaze of ice that can coat roads, pavements, trees and power lines.
Potential Impacts and Met Office Outlook
According to meteorological experts, freezing rain occurs more frequently in other parts of the world, particularly in the United States where such events are known as ice storms. The accumulation of ice glaze can become heavy enough to break tree branches and power lines, potentially causing significant disruption.
The Met Office's long-range forecast for November 15-24 indicates that many central and northern UK regions will experience colder, drier conditions with overnight frosts. Coastal areas might see some wintry showers, particularly on higher ground.
Their forecast states: "Many central and northern parts of the UK will likely be in a colder but drier regime than of late with overnight frosts, and a few showers near windward coasts in particular which may be wintry on high ground."
While southern and southwestern areas may initially remain cloudier, milder and wetter, the Met Office suggests that most of the UK will experience drier and colder conditions heading into the following week. Towards the end of the period, conditions may become more changeable with potential for rain, showers, and possible hill snow in northern regions.
