The United Kingdom is preparing for a significant winter onslaught as weather maps predict a colossal 248-mile snowstorm is set to sweep across the country. Forecasts indicate that almost all of England will be blanketed, with only a handful of counties escaping the most severe conditions.
Which Areas Will Be Hit Hardest?
According to the latest data from WXCharts, the impending weather system will create a vast corridor of snowfall stretching an estimated 248 miles from Gloucester in the South West to Durham in the North East. The charts, based on the ECMWF model and valid for 6pm on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, show nearly the entirety of England covered in snow.
However, six counties are currently projected to be spared the brunt of this widespread event. The lucky regions expected to see lighter accumulations or miss the snow altogether are Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire, and Gloucestershire.
Expert Forecast: A Prolonged Cold Snap
Weather expert James Madden of Exacta Weather has provided a detailed analysis of the incoming conditions. He warns that the UK is on the cusp of a sustained period of wintry weather.
"We are now going to see much colder conditions ushering in across our shores," Madden stated. He explained that the cold air will initially arrive from an easterly direction before potentially shifting to northeasterly or northerly winds, maintaining the potential for snow.
The first signs of this cold episode are expected between Wednesday and Friday of this week, with rain bands turning to wintry showers and snow, particularly over higher ground. Madden emphasises that the snow potential increases significantly from Thursday into Friday, especially across the northern half of the country.
Weekend and Beyond: Further Snow on the Horizon
The situation is forecast to develop further as the week progresses. Madden's analysis suggests that from Saturday and into Sunday, widespread snow showers will develop across large parts of the nation, moving from west to east.
Perhaps more concerning is the indication that this wintry pattern could persist. The forecaster mentioned the risk extends "over the period and duration of 'weeks'", as features pushing in from the Atlantic clash with the entrenched colder air over the UK, delivering further widespread snow.
Residents across the UK are advised to stay updated with the latest local forecasts and travel information, as this significant weather event begins to unfold.
