The UK is on alert for a significant wintry blast, with forecasts predicting up to 4cm of snow could settle across parts of the country within hours this week. Meteorological data indicates that Friday, December 5, will see snow forming across extensive areas of England, following initial falls in Scotland.
Which Areas Are Set For Snow?
According to projections from WX Charts, which utilises Met Desk data, the snowfall is expected to begin in northern England around 6pm on Friday. The initial focus will be on regions like the Lake District before the wintry conditions push further south into the Midlands through the evening.
While central and northern Scotland are anticipated to bear the brunt of the weather, with the deepest accumulations likely there, flurries are also forecast for Wales and England. In England, specific counties highlighted on weather maps for potential snow include:
- The West Midlands conurbation
- Staffordshire
- Yorkshire
- Cheshire
- Derbyshire
- Greater Manchester
- Lancashire
- Cumberland
- Westmorland
- Cumbria
- Northumberland
- Durham
The charts suggest the weather will deteriorate throughout Friday, reaching its peak intensity at approximately 9pm.
Expert Forecast and Increased Wintry Potential
James Madden, a forecaster from Exacta, has detailed an escalating risk of wintry conditions. He stated that models now show an increase in wintry potential for late Thursday into early Friday, and again from late Friday into Saturday.
"Thursday could actually also feel quite cold and chilly for many in parts away from the far south of the country," Madden said. He noted the risk for early wintry showers across high ground is more plausible than a few days ago.
He added: "Additionally, the current and most recent projections and model upgrades on these expected weather developments would see wintry weather or snow forming across higher ground in parts of the north and Scotland and northern England."
Timeline of the Cold Snap
The most critical period for snowfall is expected from late Thursday, continuing through early and late Friday, and into the weekend. The evening and early morning hours on these dates are pinpointed as the most favourable for snow to form and settle, particularly on Friday when temperatures are forecast to be at their lowest.
The greatest snow depth indicated on the charts is 4cm, which is most probable in Scotland. However, parts of northern England are also in line for notable accumulations as the cold front moves southwards. Residents across the affected counties are advised to stay updated with the latest travel and weather information as the week progresses.
