The UK is set for another major wintry blast, with forecasters warning a 'snow bomb' is now widening to include Birmingham and could strike sooner than initially anticipated. Advanced weather modelling indicates a substantial wall of snow will hit Britain, bringing disruptive conditions alongside the threat of torrential rain.
Major Snow Event Targets the Midlands
According to the latest data from WX Charts, Birmingham and the wider West Midlands region are forecast to be hit by significant snowfall next Sunday, January 18. The charts reveal a massive band of snow sweeping across the country, with the Midlands in the firing line for a direct hit.
Maps for that date show snow settled on the ground across most of southern England and a large portion of the Midlands. Wales is also expected to be badly affected, potentially being completely blanketed. The GFS weather model corroborates this, showing intense snowfall over the Midlands, with Birmingham specifically at risk of a dusting.
A Week of Milder, Wetter Weather First
Before the weekend snow arrives, the UK is entering a milder but unsettled phase. A Netweather TV forecast explains that this week will see a shift to a changeable westerly pattern, with winds often from the south of west. This setup means it will continue to be generally wetter than average, especially in western Scotland.
The outlook from January 19 onwards suggests temperatures are likely to be 1 to 2C above the long-term normal for most regions. However, the forecast crucially notes: "There is still potential for brief cold snaps and snowfalls... with potential for snow to fall more widely towards the end of the week." This is when an increased chance of high-pressure ridges, preceded by cold northerly winds, could bring wintry conditions.
Expert Warnings for Transient Snow and Stormy Conditions
Weather expert James Madden from Exacta Weather has issued specific warnings for the coming days. He states that from early Tuesday into Wednesday, there is a risk of further transient snow across the northern half of the country, potentially reaching as far south as central areas and Wales.
He highlights that Friday through Sunday is a critical period. Madden warns: "Another major low pressure area is favourable to develop and land upon our shores in terms of further stormy weather and heavy rain and strong winds and snow or transient snow once again."
Looking further ahead into late January and February, the broader forecast suggests changeable and relatively mild conditions will probably dominate. While there is a chance of some colder, drier weather early in that period—bringing an increased risk of snow, chiefly on northern high ground—a widespread, severe cold spell like that seen in early January is considered unlikely.
