A major winter weather system threatening the UK has been upgraded, with forecasters now warning of potential blizzard conditions hitting eight counties across England after Christmas.
Post-Christmas Freeze Targets Key Counties
According to the latest data from WX Charts, which utilises mapping from Met Desk, a significant plunge in temperatures is expected as the nation approaches the New Year. The most severe wintry conditions are currently forecast for Friday, December 27.
Advanced modelling systems, including GFS, indicate that temperatures could drop to as low as -2°C in some areas during this period. The counties identified as being most at risk include a spread from the south to the north of England.
Which Areas Are Most at Risk?
The maps highlight a string of counties that should prepare for disruptive snow and icy conditions. The affected regions are:
- Gloucestershire and Wiltshire
- North Yorkshire and East Yorkshire
- Devon and Somerset in South West England
- Derbyshire and Cheshire
Short-Term Forecast: Wind, Showers, and Frost
Before the main wintry blast, the Met Office outlook for the immediate days offers a mixed picture. For Friday, December 19, the forecast predicts a drier end to the week but with overnight frost.
The day will see sunny spells interspersed with scattered showers. The driest conditions are expected in the south and east, while the north and west will bear the brunt of the most frequent showers, with a chance of thunder.
Windy conditions will persist, particularly in the north where coastal gales are likely. Temperatures will remain around the seasonal average.
As we move into the weekend, showers will become more confined to windward coasts. Clear spells will develop, leading to colder nights with a risk of frost and isolated fog patches in the east. The north will stay windy.
Saturday should begin brightly before a band of showers moves into the southwest during the day. It will be windy in the southwest and Northern Ireland, but calmer elsewhere.
Outlook for Sunday to Tuesday
The Met Office anticipates further spells of rain or showers through Sunday and Monday, with rather cloudy skies throughout. It will begin to feel noticeably chilly by Monday.
High pressure is expected to build towards the northeast into Tuesday, which may bring more settled conditions for some.
For today, BBC Weather forecasts a dry and bright day across much of England and Wales. Scotland will see frequent showers, although the east should escape dry. Northern Ireland will have variable cloud with the odd shower, and it will remain windy in the north.
Residents in the highlighted counties are advised to monitor the latest weather warnings and travel updates as the post-Christmas period approaches.
