Major 'Beast from the East' Blizzard Forecast to Hit UK with Snow Next Week
New weather maps indicate that a significant 'Beast from the East' blizzard is poised to strike the United Kingdom in March, with substantial snowfall expected to impact numerous areas as soon as next week. According to the latest forecasts, this weather event could bring wintry conditions to up to 31 cities across the nation, marking a notable return of cold Arctic air.
Snowfall Timeline and Regional Impacts
The weather maps from WXCharts reveal that the snow will initially blanket northern England and Scotland, before shifting towards the Midlands during the second week of March. Specifically, snowfall is anticipated to commence as early as Wednesday, March 11, with flurries also predicted for the south west of England, London, and southern regions, where accumulations of 2 to 4cm are possible.
During this period, temperatures are forecast to plummet dramatically across the country, potentially dropping to as low as -4°C in some areas. In addition to the Midlands and northern England, parts of Wales, the North West of England, and Northern Ireland may also experience snow, particularly in the early hours of March 11, turning many landscapes white.
Met Office Long-Range Forecast Details
The Met Office's long-range forecast for early March describes changeable conditions, with Atlantic frontal systems moving across the UK, interspersed with drier and brighter intervals. Rainfall is expected to be heaviest in the northwest, while sheltered eastern areas may see much less precipitation. Some southeastern parts could remain largely fine.
Across high ground in the north, snow is possible at times, and winds are likely to be strong, with a risk of gales. Temperatures are projected to be near or slightly above average overall, but the blizzard could bring localized cold snaps.
Cities Expected to See Snow in March
The following cities are among those set to welcome snow during this period:
- Scotland: Dundee, Perth, Stirling, Dunfermline, Edinburgh
- England: Newcastle, Sunderland, Durham, Bradford, Leeds, York, Hull, Doncaster, Sheffield, Lincoln, Nottingham, Derby, Leicester, Worcester, Hereford, Gloucester, Bristol, Bath, Peterborough, Norwich, Cambridge, Colchester, London
- Wales: Cardiff, Swansea, Newport
Residents in these areas are advised to prepare for potential disruptions and cold weather conditions as the 'Beast from the East' makes its anticipated return.
