New weather maps have revealed the full list of English counties set to be impacted by a significant wintry spell, with two northern regions expected to bear the brunt of the conditions.
Which Counties Are in the Firing Line?
According to data from Met Desk visualised by WX Charts, a period of cold and snowy weather is forecast to sweep across parts of the UK from December 31 until January 4. The modelling indicates that northern England, particularly the north east and north west, will be hit hardest.
The analysis suggests that Lancashire and Yorkshire could be the "worst-hit" areas in England. However, they are not alone. Other counties facing potential snowfall include Cumbria, Northumberland, Durham, Norfolk, and Suffolk. Scotland is also expected to see widespread cover.
What is Causing the Wintry Shift?
Forecasters at Netweather TV provide the meteorological context for the incoming cold snap. They explain that high pressure is set to dominate, but a significant cooling over continental Europe is a key factor.
"As a result, any easterlies are more likely to be cold and potential sources of wintry precipitation, especially in eastern parts of England," their monthly outlook states. It adds that while some snow events are possible, the emphasis will be on predominantly dry and cold weather for much of the week.
Regional Forecast and Temperature Outlook
The detailed forecast predicts a shift later in the week, with high pressure potentially moving to the west and north-west of Britain. This could pull in colder winds from the north.
In terms of temperatures, a split is expected. Northern and eastern Scotland and north-east England may see temperatures slightly above normal. In contrast, most western and southern regions of Britain are likely to be 1-2C below normal.
The south coast, according to the GFS modelling system, is expected to escape the worst of the snowfall. The forecast also predicts sunshine will be above normal in western parts but below normal in the east, especially near North Sea coasts, with drier conditions expected in the west and north-west.
