Snow Maps Reveal Widespread Blanket Forecast for England on Tuesday
Large swathes of England are preparing for a fresh bout of snowfall on Tuesday, as another significant wintry weather system moves towards the UK. While not all regions will experience flurries, the impending conditions are expected to bring considerable travel disruption and have already prompted some schools to announce closures for Wednesday.
Targeted Snowfall and Widespread Rain Warnings
The snowfall is forecast to be concentrated primarily in the north of England and Scotland, where accumulations could be heaviest. Specific predictions indicate that areas near Leeds could see up to 6cm of snow, with around 4cm possible near Newcastle. The most severe wintry conditions are anticipated over higher ground across these northern regions.
Conversely, the Midlands and southern parts of England are more likely to encounter heavy rainfall. The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for rain, effective from 3pm on Tuesday until noon on Wednesday. This warning covers the southwest of England, south Wales, and extends into parts of the Midlands, including Herefordshire and Gloucestershire.
Potential Impacts and Official Guidance
Within this rain warning zone, downpours are expected to be most intense, with a significant risk of flooding in some localities. Rainfall totals are projected to reach 20-30mm widely, escalating to 50-80mm across elevated terrain such as Dartmoor, Exmoor, and the Brecon Beacons. The Met Office has cautioned that this rain will fall onto already saturated ground, likely exacerbating flooding impacts.
The national weather service stated that "outbreaks of heavy rain are likely to bring some transport disruption and flooding in places." They also noted that strong southeasterly winds are probable, adding to the challenging conditions. While the north of the Midlands may see some snow, primarily on higher ground, the dominant hazard further south remains heavy, persistent rain.
Residents across the affected regions are advised to stay updated with the latest forecasts and travel information, as the combination of snow in the north and torrential rain in the south and west is set to test the nation's infrastructure at the start of the week.
