New weather mapping data has pinpointed the exact date when the United Kingdom will be struck by a severe Arctic freeze, with temperatures expected to plummet to a bone-chilling -12C. According to the latest charts from WXCharts, this dramatic polar blast is scheduled to arrive on February 3, following a period of persistent heavy rainfall and snowfall across various regions.
Severe Cold Snap Targets Scotland
The weather maps reveal that the most extreme conditions will be concentrated around Inverness, where temperatures are forecast to drop to lows of -12C. However, the bitter cold will not be confined to this area alone. Virtually all of Scotland will experience freezing conditions, with major urban centres including Glasgow, Aberdeen, Dundee, and Edinburgh all expected to shiver at around -5C.
Maps displaying purple and white colouration from Wick down to Swansea indicate widespread potential for snowy conditions across the country. This visual data suggests that while the cold will be most intense in the north, its effects will be felt much further south.
Heavy Snowfall Expected in Northern England
The meteorological projections indicate that the heaviest snowfall is likely to impact areas around Newcastle, York, the Yorkshire Dales, Carlisle, and Middlesbrough. In these regions, temperatures are expected to fall to lows of -3C, creating hazardous travel conditions and potential disruption to daily life.
This dramatic weather development comes as the Met Office has already issued both yellow and amber warnings for rain and wind across several parts of the UK. The national weather service has further predicted the possibility of "colder conditions" developing over the coming weekend, with eastern Scotland particularly likely to experience snowy weather.
Met Office Forecast and Warnings
The Met Office has provided detailed analysis of the developing situation. "Low pressure will remain the driving force for much of the weekend’s weather, with a mixture of winds and rain for many through the weekend," explained forecasters. "While much uncertainty remains into the start of next week, there’s a chance of wintry hazards at times, particularly in the north and east, with the possibility of snow for some."
The meteorological service added specific warnings about the cold conditions developing: "With an easterly influence, cold weather, especially for those in the northeast, is on the cards with the potential for snowfall accumulations in places, though it’s too early to specify exact details."
Long-Range Weather Projections
The Met Office's extended forecast for the period between January 27 and February 5 provides further context for the approaching cold snap. "Weather systems moving in from the Atlantic will continue to attempt to push in from the west, but tending to stall in the vicinity of the UK as they encounter high pressure to the north and northeast," the forecast reads.
This atmospheric setup creates conditions ripe for precipitation: "As a result, further spells of rain or showers are expected at times. These may be heavy and persistent, especially in the south and west."
The forecast continues with specific warnings about the temperature divide: "Whilst mild conditions are expected to encroach into the south and southwest at times, cold air is likely to be positioned to the northeast, bringing wintry showers. Where fronts from the south west do reach the cold air towards the north east, there is the risk of some snow, most likely across hills, but perhaps extending to other areas at times."
This detailed meteorological analysis suggests that the UK is facing a significant weather event that will bring Arctic conditions to much of the country, with particular severity expected in Scotland and northern England as February begins.
