Several parts of the UK are likely to be blanketed in layers of snow as the Met Office confirms chances of “significant snowfall” in the coming days. The forecast predicts a drop in the mercury, with some places sinking as low as -12C – which will result in intensified frosty conditions.
Latest weather maps from WXCharts show sporadic snowfall could hit from as early as Tuesday, January 9 – with isolated areas along the southern coast of England seeing wintry showers, at least. But the first proper snow deluge will hold off for some days afterwards.
Maps indicate January 15 as the first day when an easterly blast will push south over Britain, resulting in widespread snow showers. It is likely to have a notable impact on rural and hilly areas, encompassing regions like Cheshire and Shropshire.
But it will gradually shift eastward, extending across the West Midlands and adjacent areas by the evening.
The Met Office indicated that temperatures across the country are expected to remain below the seasonal average for several days, dropping to a level where snow is anticipated to fall around Tuesday, January 16.
The long-range forecast from the Met Office from January 11 to January 20 stated: “High pressure will remain in charge at first, whilst sitting to the north or northwest of the UK. Many areas will often be dry if rather cloudy, however occasional light rain or drizzle is likely, especially on some east-facing hills.
“The best of any sunshine in sheltered western and perhaps southern areas and still rather chilly for most. Towards mid-month, the high will likely decline or reorientate itself to the west or northwest of the UK, potentially allowing colder air with snow showers to filter south across the UK and/or for frontal systems to approach from the southwest.
“The latter scenario would also bring the potential for significant snow and also perhaps some heavy rain to parts of the south. Either way a more unsettled outlook towards mid-month looks probable.”
Steven Keates, a Met Office deputy chief forecaster, added: “The colder conditions across the UK are likely to be established for some time and will be a key theme of next week’s weather.
“However, the beginning of next week is likely to see the lowest temperatures of this colder spell, and by the end of next week we should start to see a gradual rise in values, at least for a time.”
In anticipation of the upcoming cold spell, both the Met Office and the UKHSA have issued a yellow cold health alert for the entire country, effective from tomorrow at 9 am until noon on January 12.
The alert emphasises the potential risks it poses to vulnerable segments of the population, specifically those aged over 65 and individuals prone to health issues exacerbated by severe and bitter conditions.
Sunday, January 7:
Foggy Sunday for parts of Northern Ireland, central and southern Scotland, where patches linger. Scattered showers in the east but remaining dry elsewhere with sunny spells. Feeling rather cold for all, accentuated further by a brisk wind in the southeast.
This evening
Some showers continuing but otherwise a dry night with variable amounts of cloud. Fog patches returning, most likely across Northern Ireland, Scotland and northwest England. Widespread frost and icy stretches.
Monday:
Fine for many with sunny spells – best of these in the west after fog clears. Scattered sleet and snow showers across southern areas. Wind chill for England and Wales.
Outlook for Tuesday to Thursday:
High pressure dominating, with overnight frost and fog. Generally dry and bright, though turning cloudier in the north from Wednesday. Remaining cold with a brisk wind in the south.
