The United Kingdom is bracing for a dramatic and icy transformation as forecasters predict a powerful Arctic blast will sweep across the nation next week. Weather modelling indicates that a wall of rain will turn to significant snow, battering England, Scotland, and Wales just days before the Christmas period.
Snow Maps Predict Widespread Disruption
Advanced projections from WX Charts, based on GFS modelling, paint a stark picture for Friday, December 12. The data shows a band of precipitation, initially arriving as heavy rain, will rapidly turn to snow as it meets freezing air from the Arctic. This is expected to create disruptive conditions across a broad swathe of the country.
By next Friday, temperatures are forecast to plummet below zero Celsius in many areas. The snow is predicted to be at its heaviest around midday on December 12, with several inches of accumulation likely in parts of Greater Manchester, Lancashire, and Yorkshire. North Wales and western Scotland are also in line for substantial snowfall, according to the maps.
Short-Term Forecast and Longer Outlook
In the immediate term, the Met Office reports rain moving north and east across most areas today, followed by brighter but showery conditions in southern England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The forecast warns of a colder day with breezy conditions for many.
Looking ahead to the weekend, the outlook from Saturday to Monday suggests brighter weather with blustery showers on Saturday, followed by the return of more persistent rain on Sunday. A brief settled spell is expected for Monday with sunny spells, before conditions turn unsettled again by evening.
Preparing for a Freeze Before Christmas
This predicted Arctic blast signifies a sharp drop in temperatures as the UK moves deeper into December. The shift from rain to snow poses potential challenges for travel and infrastructure. Residents across the three Home Nations are advised to monitor updated forecasts from the Met Office and WX Charts as the event draws nearer, to prepare for the possibility of wintry hazards disrupting pre-Christmas plans.
