Key Highlights
- The UK is expected to face a severe wintry blast with 24-hour Arctic blizzards hitting major cities within days.
- Snowfall is predicted in northern regions starting from December 18, spreading across England and Wales, Northern Ireland, and Scotland by December 19.
- Major cities like Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Dundee are at risk of snowfall on December 19 as per weather maps.
- The Met Office warns of potential wintry hazards due to the ongoing cold front from the Atlantic.
UK Weather Forecast: Arctic Blizzards Looming Over Major Cities
The UK is bracing for a severe winter storm as advanced weather models predict a 24-hour Arctic blizzard sweeping across major cities within days. The forecast, detailing snowfall starting from December 18 and extending through the weekend, has caught many residents off guard.
Early Snowfall Predictions
According to WXCHARTS, snow is expected in northern regions of the UK by around 6 pm on December 18. By 9 pm, a significant weather front will move from the Atlantic, bringing heavy rain to England and Wales while simultaneously causing snowfall in Northern Ireland.
Midnight and Early Morning Predictions
Around 3 am on December 19, snow is forecasted to fall over the Pennines in northern England and parts of southern Scotland. By midday, intense flurries are expected in some areas of Northern Ireland and southern Scotland. The Met Office warns of potential wintry hazards due to these weather conditions.
Later Snowfall and Weather Patterns
Snow coverage maps for 6 pm on December 19 reveal that most of Northern Ireland, including Belfast, will have settled snow as well as significant snow cover across most of Scotland and parts of northern England. The Met Office notes that while there may not be extensive snow accumulations in Northern Ireland or England, the Scottish Highlands could see up to 9 cm of snow.
Major cities such as Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Dundee are expected to receive some snow on December 19, with heavy rain potentially falling elsewhere in England and Wales. The weather conditions may vary significantly between regions due to the complex nature of these wintry storms, leading to a mix of precipitation types.
Expert Perspective: Met Office Warnings
The Met Office’s forecast for December 14 to 23 anticipates continued unsettled weather with frontal systems from the Atlantic spreading across the UK. While generally mild, there may be a slight downward trend in temperatures, especially in northern parts of the country.
According to the Met Office, “A continuation of a similar pattern to that seen through early December is anticipated, especially at first, as frontal systems from the Atlantic spread into and across the UK, interspersed with some temporary drier interludes. These will bring spells of rain, which may be heavy at times leading to the risk of some impacts given how wet it has been lately, especially in the west. In addition, there is also potential for some periods of strong winds at times too.”
Despite the generally mild conditions, the Met Office advises that there could be a higher chance of wintry hazards in northern parts of the UK due to these ongoing weather patterns.
Conclusion
Preparing for Wintry Conditions
The coming days will see a significant shift in weather across much of the UK, with snow and heavy rain expected in various regions. Residents and authorities are advised to prepare for potential disruptions caused by these wintry conditions, especially as they move into major cities on December 19.
As the Met Office continues to monitor the situation, it is crucial for individuals and communities to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure safety during this severe weather event.
