The United Kingdom is preparing for a significant winter weather event, with forecasters predicting a sharp plunge in temperatures and disruptive snowfall within days. Maps from WX Charts, utilising Met Desk data, are turning white, indicating a substantial snow event is poised to strike the nation.
Counties Facing the Brunt of the Winter Blast
Weather experts have identified 12 counties in England as being most at risk from the impending cold snap. The mercury is expected to plummet to a staggering -3C in the coldest parts of the country, with weather models highlighting widespread accumulations of snow.
A full list of counties covered by the snow warnings on meteorological charts includes:
- Yorkshire
- Lincolnshire
- Derbyshire
- Nottinghamshire
- Staffordshire
- Leicestershire
- Cheshire
- Lancashire
In addition, major urban centres such as Greater Manchester, Durham, and the West Midlands conurbation including Birmingham are also highlighted as areas of significant risk.
Timing of the Arctic Onslaught
The deteriorating conditions are currently earmarked for December 28, potentially bringing a dusting of snow to England in the period between Christmas and New Year. Weather maps illustrate temperatures dropping to as low as -3C at times during this frosty period.
Nick Finnis from Netweather TV provided a detailed meteorological explanation for the shift. He stated: "It looks to turn drier and colder next week, as high pressure builds close to the north, while Atlantic low pressure systems are re-routed to the southwest and south of the UK."
He elaborated that this pattern will allow a southeasterly, then easterly flow to develop, which may draw in colder air from Russia in time for Christmas. The forecast suggests a drying trend from Tuesday as this continental airflow establishes itself.
A Major Shift in Weather Patterns
This dramatic change follows a period dominated by Atlantic low-pressure systems since the start of December. According to Finnis, the shift is driven by anticyclonic wave-breaking over the far north Atlantic. This process leads to North Atlantic trough disruption, eventually allowing high pressure to build to the north of the UK next week, locking in the colder conditions.
Residents across the identified counties, particularly in the West Midlands and northern England, are advised to stay updated with the latest forecasts and prepare for potential travel disruption and icy conditions as the week progresses.
