England is bracing for a significant shift in weather conditions this week, with forecasters issuing warnings for both snow and heavy rain across different regions. While some areas are preparing for wintry flurries, others are set to experience substantial rainfall that could lead to transport disruption and localised flooding.
Snow Forecast for Northern England and Scotland
Weather maps indicate that northern parts of England, along with Scotland, are most likely to see snowfall from Tuesday onwards. The white stuff is expected to be more prevalent over higher ground, with regions around Leeds and Newcastle potentially experiencing the heaviest accumulations. This follows a pattern of unsettled winter weather that has affected the country in recent weeks.
Heavy Rain Warning for Southern and Western Regions
In contrast to the northern snow forecast, large sections of England are set to experience heavy rainfall instead. The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for rain covering the southwest of England and south Wales, extending up to parts of the Midlands including Herefordshire and Gloucestershire. This warning takes effect from 3pm on Monday and remains in place until noon on Tuesday.
The meteorological service has cautioned that "outbreaks of heavy rain likely to bring some transport disruption and flooding in places." Rainfall totals are expected to reach 20-30 mm across many areas, with 50-80 mm likely across higher ground, particularly on Dartmoor, Exmoor and Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons).
Areas Set to Escape Snowfall
Revised weather maps clearly show which regions will avoid the snow bomb hitting England from Tuesday. The Midlands and southern areas are among those set to experience rain rather than snow, though this precipitation could still cause significant issues due to already saturated ground conditions from previous wet weather.
Potential Impacts and Precautions
With ground conditions already wet from recent rainfall, the additional precipitation is expected to fall onto saturated surfaces, potentially accentuating flooding impacts in vulnerable areas. The Met Office has also warned of strong southeasterly winds accompanying the weather system, which could exacerbate conditions further.
Residents in affected areas are advised to:
- Check local weather forecasts regularly for updates
- Prepare for possible travel disruptions on roads and public transport
- Take precautions against potential flooding in low-lying areas
- Monitor official warnings from the Met Office and local authorities
The weather system is expected to bring outbreaks of rain, heavy at times, affecting parts of southern and southwest England as well as southern and mid Wales from Monday afternoon through Tuesday morning before clearing to heavy showers later on Tuesday. This developing situation underscores the importance of staying informed about local weather conditions as the week progresses.
