The United Kingdom is on high alert as meteorological models predict a severe Arctic blast will sweep across the nation this weekend, bringing with it a potential 20-inch snow bomb and bone-chilling temperatures as low as -11°C.
Severe Snowfall and Plummeting Temperatures Imminent
According to the latest data from WX Charts, a barrage of heavy snow is set to target the UK as we move further into January. The most intense period is expected around midnight on Sunday, January 11. Forecasts indicate that many areas of Scotland could see staggering snow accumulations of up to 20 inches (approximately 50cm), with snowfall rates potentially reaching 10mm per hour.
Alongside the heavy snow, a brutal cold snap will grip the country. The mercury is forecast to plunge to a bitter -11°C in central Scotland during the early hours of Sunday. This follows a night where temperatures already dropped to -10.9°C in Shap, Cumbria.
Widespread Weather Warnings and Current Conditions
The Met Office has issued Yellow weather warnings for snow and ice covering the whole of Scotland, Northern Ireland, and northern England. These warnings highlight significant risks of travel disruption and hazardous conditions.
Substantial snow is already lying on the ground from previous wintry showers. As of 10:00 Monday morning, notable accumulations included:
- 52cm at Tomintoul in Banffshire.
- 35cm at Durris in Kincardineshire.
- 34cm at Loch Glascarnoch in Ross & Cromarty.
Jo Farrow from Netweather TV described the pattern as "the classic wishbone distribution of snow showers in a northerly," with the heaviest snow for northern Scotland and showers affecting Northern Ireland and the fringes of Britain.
Public Advice and Further Outlook
Authorities and charities are urging the public to take precautions during this period of extreme weather. Inland areas, while often dry and sunny, remain very cold with widespread ice. The RSPB has asked people to put out fresh water for birds to help them conserve energy in the bitter conditions.
The weather is set to remain dynamic and challenging. Ms. Farrow added that after a risk of ice from Monday's showers, weather fronts will arrive from the northwest on Monday night. These will introduce more snow, sleet, and rain over Scotland, reaching the north of Northern Ireland and Cumbria before dawn. Tuesday is then expected to begin with another cold and frosty start.
Residents across the affected regions are advised to stay updated with the latest forecasts from the Met Office, plan essential journeys carefully, and check on vulnerable neighbours during this intense cold spell.
