The United Kingdom is preparing for a significant cold snap, with weather models indicating the potential for up to 33 inches (85cm) of snow in parts of the country. The Met Office has officially warned of an increased likelihood of colder conditions and "wintry hazards" in the coming weeks.
Forecast Maps Predict Substantial Snowfall
According to data from WX Charts, which utilises the ECMWF modelling system, the heaviest snow is expected to blanket Scotland. The projections suggest a staggering 85cm accumulation is possible in some areas. The period around February 1 has been highlighted as the likely timeframe for the return of significant wintry flurries to British shores.
Alongside the heavy snow, a severe drop in temperatures is anticipated. The coldest conditions are forecast for central Scotland, where thermometers could plunge to a biting -11°C. Remarkably, even south Wales could see temperatures as low as -10°C around midday on February 2.
Official Warnings from Forecasters
The Met Office's long-range outlook aligns with these predictions, pointing to a heightened risk of cold weather disruptions. Separately, the BBC Weather team has stated that the end of January and the start of February will most probably usher in a "colder-than-average period" for the UK.
Meteorologist Nick Finnis from Netweather TV provided further analysis, explaining the atmospheric shift. "High pressure building to the north and northeast will encourage colder and more stable air to edge into northern parts of the UK initially and perhaps all parts the following week," he said.
Source of the Chill and Snow Potential
Finnis noted that this cold airmass will originate from a very cold Russia, though it will moderate somewhat before reaching the British Isles. He added a crucial detail for snow lovers and travellers alike: "It could be cold enough to bring snow even to lower levels, but this depends how close high pressure is, as it may remain cold and dry."
The expert's outlook suggests the turn to colder weather will begin from next weekend, with the deepest cold and most widespread snow risk arriving in the final week of January. "Deeper cold with risk of snow away from higher ground reaches all the UK from the east," the Netweather forecast concludes.
Before the freeze sets in, the Atlantic weather systems will remain in control for the next 5-6 days, bringing largely cloudy conditions and patchy rain across many regions. The nation is now on alert for a potentially disruptive transition to a much wintrier regime as January draws to a close.
