Millions of people across the United Kingdom are being warned to prepare for significant snowfall and a sharp drop in temperatures as the year draws to a close. Advanced weather modelling indicates that a major snow event could blanket vast swathes of the country on Tuesday, December 30.
Timeline of the Wintry Onslaught
The first snowflakes are expected to appear from around 9am on December 30. Initial flurries are predicted for the north-west of England, affecting Manchester and Merseyside, as well as areas along the England-Wales border. Devon and Cornwall may also see a light dusting at this time.
By midday, forecasters anticipate snow beginning to settle in several key regions. This includes the England-Wales border, the Peak District, the Yorkshire Dales, and the Lake District. Southern parts of Scotland could also experience some early showers.
Heavy Snow Spreads Nationwide
The situation is forecast to intensify throughout the afternoon. Projections for 3pm show heavy and widespread snowfall impacting Devon, parts of Wales, Oxfordshire, the Midlands, and the north-west of England. While Scotland may see less severe conditions at this point, cities like Edinburgh could still be affected.
By 9pm, the focus of the most serious snowfall is expected to shift to Scotland. Areas such as Stirling, Perth and Kinross are set for the most intense falls, with significant accumulation predicted across both the Highlands and Lowlands. Meanwhile, lighter flurries may continue in north-west England and North Wales.
Extensive Blanket by New Year's Eve
Snow coverage maps for the morning of December 31 reveal the potential scale of the disruption. Forecasts suggest snow could cover nearly all of Wales, sections of Northern Ireland, most of Scotland, and a vast stretch of England from Plymouth to the far north.
Accumulations are predicted to vary significantly:
- The Scottish Highlands could see up to 10cm (four inches) of snow.
- Wales may experience around 4cm.
- The Pennines in northern England could witness 2cm of accumulation.
Met Office Issues Chilling Outlook
The Met Office has warned that "wintry showers" may affect parts of the country between now and the end of the year. Their outlook for the period December 24 to January 2 indicates a notable change. A strengthening easterly wind over Christmas will make it feel "noticeably colder," with frosts likely where skies are clear.
The forecast explains that high pressure will build, bringing largely settled conditions but with a risk of wintry showers, particularly in eastern and southern areas and over high ground. Temperatures are expected to remain below average for much of the period, signalling a frosty and potentially snowy transition into the New Year for many Britons.
