UK Braces for Two Major Snow Storms Within 72 Hours, Start Times Confirmed
The United Kingdom is preparing for the arrival of two substantial snow storms within a 72-hour period, as wintry conditions return to the nation. Advanced meteorological modelling, utilizing data from WX Charts based on the ECMWF system, indicates that the initial snowfall will commence on the morning of Sunday, February 15.
First Storm Details and Affected Areas
The first wave of snow flurries is scheduled to begin at 6am, primarily impacting the West Midlands region, including Birmingham. In addition to the West Midlands conurbation, other areas at significant risk include Greater London, Yorkshire, East Anglia, and Greater Manchester. This initial event marks a shift in the recent weather patterns, bringing colder air and potential disruptions.
Second Blizzard Timing and Intensity
A second, more intense blizzard is forecast to sweep across the UK on the following Tuesday, approximately at 6pm. According to the modelling data, snowfall rates could reach up to four inches per hour in some locations, leading to rapid accumulation and challenging travel conditions. Snow coverage maps for February 18 project accumulations of up to 48cm (19 inches) in the North Pennines and around 26cm (10 inches) in Northern Ireland.
Expert Analysis and Weather Patterns
Jo Farrow, a meteorologist from Netweather, provided insight into the changing conditions. "A shift in our stuck weather pattern will take place in the second half of this week," she explained. "Colder air will tuck behind a low pressure and reach down through the UK, with some frosty nights and a bit of snow." She noted that clear skies and sunshine are expected on Saturday before a new Atlantic frontal system brings high cloud and precipitation.
Ms Farrow added, "The UK has a mess of occluded fronts bringing rain over northern England, Northern Ireland and the southern half of Scotland on Wednesday. This will increasingly turn to snow over the high ground of inland Britain as the colder air begins to seep in."
BBC Weather Forecast for the Coming Days
The BBC Weather forecast outlines the following conditions:
- Tomorrow: Rain across southern England and Wales with potential snow over hills. Cold in Scotland and northern England with sunny spells and snow showers. Dry and bright for Northern Ireland.
- Saturday: A crisp, bright day overall, though some wintry showers may linger on east coasts in the morning. Cloudier conditions will develop in the west later in the afternoon and evening.
- Overnight into Sunday: Turning windy as a band of rain moves in from the west, initially falling as snow.
- Sunday afternoon and Monday: A mix of sunny spells and showers is anticipated.
Residents across the affected regions are advised to stay updated on local weather warnings and prepare for potential travel delays and hazardous conditions as these two snow storms approach.
