As festive anticipation builds across the United Kingdom, many Brits are asking one burning question: will we be treated to a white Christmas this year? Following an exceptionally cold November that brought the season's first snowfall, the Met Office has now released its highly anticipated verdict on the chances of snow on Christmas Day 2025.
The Festive Forecast: Snow or Rain?
The latest long-range UK forecast from the Met Office, which currently runs up to 23rd December, provides a clear picture of the conditions expected in the lead-up to the big day. Unfortunately for those dreaming of a snowy landscape, the prospects for a widespread festive flurry are not looking promising.
Meteorologists indicate a 'chance of winter hazards' in the days before the 25th, but no significant, widespread snow is currently predicted for most of the country. While some snow could be likely in Scotland and the mountainous areas of northern England, the general outlook for early December suggests chilly winds and rain for many.
What Does the Long-Range Forecast Say?
For the period from 3rd to 17th December, conditions are expected to remain largely dry. However, the Met Office has hinted that things could shift in the coming weeks. The weather service stated that whilst there is significant uncertainty, it looks likely that the weather will become more settled for a time, with low-pressure systems being steered to the south of the UK.
The forecast adds: "There is, however, the possibility of some periods of rain or wintry precipitation at times. Temperatures are probably near or a little below normal, but there is a chance of winter hazards, including snow at times, for some."
Looking further ahead, from Tuesday 9th December to Tuesday 23rd December, the prediction is for generally unsettled conditions through mid-December with spells of wet and windy weather, especially in the northwest. Some drier periods are possible, particularly in the southeast. Later in the month, details remain uncertain, but it may become wetter in the south and perhaps a little drier in the north. Overall, temperatures during this period are likely to be above average.
A Look Back at White Christmases Past
The UK's last widespread white Christmas occurred in 2010, an event the Met Office describes as "extremely unusual". On that day, not only was there snow on the ground at 83% of weather stations—the highest amount ever recorded—but snow or sleet also fell at 19% of stations. The country also experienced a white Christmas in 2009, when 13% of stations recorded snow or sleet falling, and 57% reported snow lying on the ground.
While it is still too early to say with certainty whether 2025 will join this exclusive list, the Met Office emphasises that conditions can change rapidly. They advise checking their daily updated forecasts regularly for the most current information on the UK's Christmas weather prospects.
