Meteorological data has pinpointed the exact start time for a significant snow event set to impact the United Kingdom, with forecasts predicting accumulations of up to 18 centimetres in the worst-affected regions. Detailed maps and charts from the weather modelling service WX Charts indicate that northern and central England are primed to bear the brunt of this incoming winter weather system.
Precise Timing and Icy Conditions
The data reveals that the so-called 'snow bomb' will commence its arrival from approximately 6am on Thursday, February 5. It is expected to bring bitterly cold temperatures plunging to around -4 degrees Celsius alongside the heavy snowfall. The icy conditions are forecast to extend across most of Scotland and the highlighted regions of England, creating hazardous travel and potential disruptions.
Regional Snow Depth Predictions
Forecasts utilising Met Desk data show a varied picture of accumulation across the country:
- Northern and Central England: This area is set for the most severe impact, with snow depths potentially reaching a significant 18 centimetres. The county of Yorkshire is highlighted as likely to be the worst-hit locality within this zone.
- Scotland: Around Inverness, snow depths could accumulate to around 10 centimetres.
- Wider England: A broad swathe of the country, stretching from Carlisle down to Stoke-on-Trent, is also anticipated to experience snow flurries and lighter accumulations.
Experts have warned that the settled snow could persist for several days, potentially lingering into Friday, February 6, prolonging the wintry conditions.
Contrasting Weather Concerns: Snow vs. Rain
While the snow threat dominates headlines for the north, Netweather TV forecaster Nick Finnis has emphasised a contrasting and pressing concern for other regions. He notes that for much of England and Wales, the primary weather issue in the coming days will not be snow but exceptionally heavy rainfall.
"For much of England and Wales, the main weather concern over the coming days will not be snow but rather much more rain falling on already saturated soil in the south and west in particular," Finnis stated.
Significant Rainfall and Flood Risk
Finnis explained the meteorological setup, indicating that areas of low pressure moving in from the Atlantic will be blocked from progressing eastwards. Instead, they are predicted to swing northwards across the UK. This pattern, driven by a southerly tracking jet stream, tends to draw up more warmth and moisture, leading to persistent and heavy rain.
The forecast is for substantial rainfall totals, especially in the south and west:
- Parts of southern and western UK, along with higher ground in the north, could see over 100mm of rain between now and Friday.
- Large parts of southern England (mostly south of the M4 motorway) and Wales have already received over 100mm this month, with more on the way.
This situation raises serious concerns about flooding. "With the ground already saturated and river levels currently already running high, there is a growing risk of flooding as we head towards the start of February," Finnis added, indicating that models show the potential for large rainfall totals in southern England and Wales over the coming weeks.
The nation is therefore bracing for a dual weather challenge: severe wintry conditions with significant snow for the north and centre, countered by a major flood risk from prolonged heavy rain in the south and west.
