A significant winter weather system, dubbed a 'snow bomb', is forecast to strike the United Kingdom in the new year, with thirteen counties across England expected to bear the initial brunt. Weather maps indicate a severe cold snap arriving around January 3, bringing widespread snow and plummeting temperatures following the Christmas period.
Counties on Alert for Initial Snowfall
According to data from WX Charts and the Met Desk, the first wave of wintry conditions will primarily affect northern and eastern regions. The counties initially at risk include:
- Northumberland
- Cumbria
- County Durham
- North Yorkshire
- East Riding of Yorkshire
- West Yorkshire
- Lancashire
- Lincolnshire
The forecast suggests the cold will then push southwards, putting areas like Norfolk, Suffolk, Buckinghamshire, and Oxfordshire on alert. Notably, the projections even indicate a potential for the big chill to reach Cornwall on the south coast.
Plunging Temperatures and Widespread Impact
Temperatures are predicted to drop sharply alongside the snowfall. In parts of North East England, the mercury could plunge to lows of -6°C. Scotland is bracing for even more severe conditions, with anticipated lows of -9°C.
While England is expected to be milder than Scotland, widespread sub-zero conditions are still likely. The BBC's forecast notes that after an unsettled start to the week, drier and colder conditions will develop, with an easterly flow driving the temperature down.
Short-Term Outlook and Uncertain Duration
In the immediate term, Netweather forecaster Nick Finnis advised that conditions are expected to dry out after Tuesday. High pressure building over Scandinavia will extend westwards, bringing drier air from the east.
"With an easterly flow developing, it will turn colder too, with temperatures falling through the week," Finnis stated. "Temperatures on Christmas Day and Boxing Day may reach 4-6C at best, while there will be a risk of frost overnight where skies clear."
The BBC has indicated that the duration of this cold period remains uncertain, with the possibility of milder weather starting to return by mid-January. The broadcaster added that its next update will re-examine the expected cold spell for better clues on its likely longevity.
