The UK is set to be gripped by a significant winter freeze, with forecasters warning of a 'snow bomb' set to arrive next week. Temperatures are predicted to plummet to a bitter -6C in some regions, while large swathes of the country prepare for a blanket of snow.
Snow Bomb Forecast and Affected Areas
According to detailed maps from forecaster WX Charts, the main event is scheduled for Tuesday, January 6. By midday on that date, snow is expected to cover extensive parts of the nation. The heaviest accumulations are forecast for Scotland, northern England, and down through the Midlands.
Wales will also see significant snowfall, and there is potential for snow in Cornwall and Devon. Northern Ireland is likely to experience a mix, though rain is expected to be more prevalent than snow there. Most areas under the snow cloud can anticipate around 5cm of accumulation initially.
Deep Freeze and Escaping Regions
The snowfall will be accompanied by a severe temperature drop. The lowest temperatures, around -6C, are anticipated in Yorkshire and Cumbria. The Midlands and London could see lows of -4C, while the north will range from -3C to -6C. The south west may see slightly milder daytime highs of around 4C.
Not all regions will be affected. The maps indicate that the south coast of England, London, and the east of England are currently shown to escape the initial widespread blanketing. By 3pm on Wednesday, January 7, conditions are expected to be more settled but still snowy, with between 5cm and 10cm covering most areas. Only small patches, including south Wales, Bristol, Southampton, and parts of Cornwall and Devon, may be without snow.
Immediate Outlook and Met Office Guidance
Separately, the Met Office forecast for the immediate period highlights ongoing cold conditions. For Saturday, January 3, a cold and frosty start is expected for all, with further snow showers, particularly for northeast Scotland, and it will feel very cold.
The outlook from Sunday through to Tuesday suggests plenty of sunshine but also sleet and snow showers, especially in areas exposed to the northerly wind. The weather will remain cold throughout, with widespread night frosts, though showers may begin to ease from Monday.
Households across the UK are advised to prepare for the freezing weather, potential travel disruption, and to take necessary precautions to stay warm and safe during this intense cold spell.
