Britain is braced for a significant wintry blast, with forecasters now predicting up to 23 centimetres (nine inches) of snow could fall in some regions from next week. The most severe conditions are expected to commence around December 10, according to the latest data.
Regions on Alert for Heavy Snowfall
Maps generated by WX Charts, which uses Met Desk data, indicate that the heaviest snow will target Scotland and northern parts of England. The areas most at risk include the Scottish counties of Highlands, Argyll and Bute, Perth and Kinross, Stirling, and west Aberdeenshire.
In England, parts of Cumbria, Northumberland, and North Yorkshire are also in line for substantial accumulations. The forecaster suggests that North West England, North East England, and the Northern Midlands counties face the highest risk from the deteriorating conditions.
A Sharp Drop in Temperatures
Accompanying the snow will be a notable plunge in temperatures. By 6pm on December 10, minimum temperatures across the UK are projected to fall to single digits. For England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, lows will range between 2°C and 8°C.
Scotland will bear the brunt of the cold, with the mercury expected to drop to between -1°C and -3°C, creating ideal conditions for settling snow and icy hazards.
Current Met Office and BBC Outlook
The Met Office forecast for the immediate period highlights unsettled conditions. For Tuesday, December 2, it predicts "scattered blustery showers will continue in the south and west, with hail and thunder possible." The outlook for Wednesday to Friday mentions spells of rain moving in on Thursday and Friday after a largely dry Wednesday.
The BBC's forecast for today notes windy weather with outbreaks of rain, heavy in Wales and west England. This rain is expected to clear from the north temporarily before redeveloping in Northern Ireland and southern Scotland later on.
Residents in the affected regions are advised to monitor the latest weather warnings from the Met Office and plan for potential travel disruption as the cold snap approaches.
