Birmingham residents should prepare for another bout of wintry weather, as fresh meteorological data points to a significant new storm arriving this weekend. The city, where previous snowfall has only just thawed, could see a fresh blanket of snow as early as Sunday, January 18.
New Storm System Approaches the UK
Advanced weather modelling, including the GFS system, indicates a potent low-pressure system is on course to descend upon Britain. This developing storm is forecast to bring a disruptive mix of heavy snowfall and torrential rain across large parts of the country, marking a return to unsettled conditions.
The timeline suggests the system will begin its impact in the early hours of Sunday. Wales is predicted to bear the initial brunt with intense snow showers around midnight. For the Midlands and southern England, including Birmingham, the initial phase is expected to involve heavy rainfall.
Snowfall Spreads Across the Midlands and South
As the night progresses, the weather front is projected to shift eastwards rapidly. By 3am, London and Essex are anticipated to see snowfall, while East Anglia and the south-east face heavy rain showers.
A key snapshot from WX Charts for 9am on Sunday, January 18, shows a stark picture. It forecasts snow covering a substantial portion of the Midlands, with specific areas of Birmingham included. Most of southern England is also shown under a potential snow cover at this time.
Meanwhile, Wales is projected to be completely blanketed, and central and northern regions of Scotland are also set for significant cover. Major Scottish cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh can expect some snow flurries from this system.
Broader Outlook for the Week Ahead
The BBC Weather outlook for the coming week corroborates the potential for further snowfall but suggests it may not be widespread. It states the rest of the week will remain unsettled, with temperatures near or above the January average, meaning any lying snow should thaw quickly.
However, it adds: "There are hints of a potent low pressure system approaching late in the week, so some heavy rain and strong winds look possible, with snow most likely just over higher ground in northern Scotland." This aligns with the model predictions for a powerful storm arriving around Sunday.
Residents in Birmingham and the wider West Midlands region are advised to monitor the latest weather updates closely as the weekend approaches, with the likelihood of travel disruption due to snow and rain.
