UK Braces for Extended Snow Event as 40-Hour 'Snow Bomb' Approaches
Meteorological data indicates that the United Kingdom is preparing for a substantial winter weather event, with forecasts predicting approximately 40 hours of continuous snowfall commencing next week. According to analysis from WX Charts, which utilises Met Desk information, this prolonged period of wintry precipitation could begin in some regions as early as the evening of Monday, 26 January 2026.
Timeline and Geographic Spread of the Snowfall
The significant weather system, described by some forecasters as a snow bomb, is expected to develop from a clash between moist Atlantic air and a frigid Siberian air mass. The initial snowfall is projected to start across the South West of England and sections of Wales during the late hours of Monday. By 6:00 am on Tuesday, 27 January, meteorological models suggest the front will intensify into an extensive band of snow, stretching nearly 400 miles and moving swiftly in an eastward direction across the country.
Regional Impact and Expected Snow Depths
Scotland appears likely to experience the most severe conditions from this blizzard. The Highlands could witness snow accumulations reaching depths of up to 70 centimetres (approximately 27 inches). Furthermore, areas surrounding Dundee and Aberdeen are also forecast for severe snowfall, with some predictive charts indicating the possibility of isolated peaks accumulating up to 77 centimetres.
In England, the Midlands and the North East are directly in the path of this weather system. Birmingham is forecast to have an 18-hour window of snow starting around midday on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the North East, including locations such as Newcastle and Durham, may encounter intense snowfall beginning at 6:00 am on Wednesday, 28 January.
Varied Conditions and Prolonged Events
Advanced modelling from the ECMWF HRES system indicates that while northern and western regions face heavy snow, London and parts of the South East may see the precipitation transition to heavy rain. However, a light dusting of snow remains a possibility for the capital during the coldest overnight periods.
Warrington and Liverpool are expected to experience a particularly prolonged snow event. Forecasts from BBC Weather suggest snow could begin at midnight on Wednesday and continue intermittently until the morning of Thursday, 29 January.
Travel Disruption and Official Warnings
Transport authorities have issued warnings of a high risk of significant travel chaos. National Rail and major airlines, including Ryanair and Jet2, have already signalled the potential for delays and cancellations. National Highways may issue amber warnings for key motorways such as the M6, M62, and A1(M) as visibility is expected to drop dramatically during blizzard conditions.
Context and Public Advice
This impending cold snap follows a volatile January that included record-breaking 99mph winds from Storm Goretti. Forecasters at Netweather TV suggest that while a milder transition is possible in February, the final week of January will likely remain significantly below the seasonal average temperature.
Residents across the affected areas are being urged to prepare thoroughly. Advice includes ensuring adequate supplies of essentials and checking on vulnerable neighbours. The UK Health Security Agency is considering extending existing cold health alerts through to the end of the month in response to the forecast.
