The United Kingdom is on high alert as weather models predict a severe double-hit of winter weather, with two significant blizzards set to strike in rapid succession at the end of January. Forecasts indicate these systems could dump as much as 19 inches (48cm) of snow in some areas, potentially blanketing up to 90 per cent of the country.
Exact Dates and Initial Impact
According to advanced modelling from WX Charts, which utilises data from Met Desk, the first major snowstorm is projected to sweep across the nation on Thursday, January 29. The initial flurries are expected to target Northern Ireland, Wales, the west coast of Scotland, and south-west England.
This opening salvo will be followed almost immediately by a second, powerful blizzard. The GFS weather model indicates this next system will arrive on Friday, January 30, with intense snowfall predicted for the south-west, Wales, the north-west, and parts of Scotland from around 9pm that evening.
A Shift in Weather Patterns
Meteorologists point to a significant shift in the atmospheric battle over the UK as the driver for this severe cold snap. In the Netweather TV blog, forecaster Nick Finnis explained the changing dynamic. He stated that while the Atlantic has dominated recently, bringing milder, wet, and windy conditions, blocking high pressure from Scandinavia is expected to extend its influence westwards from Sunday.
This shift could force low-pressure systems southwards towards France and Spain, opening the door for cold air to flood west from Scandinavia across the North Sea. Finnis noted that the coldest air is likely to reach the north and north-east first on Sunday, before potentially spreading across all areas by Monday, bringing temperatures cold enough for widespread snow.
Widespread Coverage and Immediate Outlook
Snow coverage maps reveal the extensive reach of these two weather events. If the forecasts hold, the cumulative effect of the back-to-back blizzards will leave the vast majority of the UK under a layer of snow by the start of February, with significant disruptions to travel and services anticipated.
In the immediate days leading up to this severe spell, the weather will remain unsettled. Through midweek, the country can expect spells of rain and brisk winds moving northwards, with some brighter intervals. A key watchpoint is for persistent and heavy rain in eastern Scotland, which may turn to snow as temperatures plummet. This rain, intermittent at first on Wednesday, is forecast to become persistent and heavy over high ground later, continuing into Thursday and possibly Friday.
Residents across the UK are advised to monitor the latest forecasts and warnings from official sources, and to prepare for potentially hazardous winter conditions at the end of the month.
