The United Kingdom is preparing for a severe bout of winter weather, with two significant snow events forecast to hit the country within days. Forecast models indicate the potential for disruptive snowfall, beginning later this week.
First Snow Front Set to Strike on Thursday
According to data from WX Charts, which utilises the ECMWF weather model, the first wave of snow is predicted to arrive from Thursday, January 8. This initial system could bring flurries of up to one inch of snow per hour to parts of the nation. The areas expected to bear the brunt include London, the Midlands, East Anglia, and the south-east of England.
This weather is linked to a deepening area of low pressure that has been named Storm Goretti by Meteo France, as the strongest winds are anticipated over northern France. The Met Office has explained that this storm will clash with the very cold air currently over the UK.
Met Office Issues 'Multi-Hazard' Warning
Deputy Chief Forecaster Chris Bulmer stated that Thursday night could become a 'multi-hazard' event. "It will clash with the very cold air here, meaning Thursday night could be what we call a ‘multi-hazard’ event, with snow on the northern flank of the low, wind and rain on the southern flank," he said.
In response, the Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for snow for sections of England and Wales, where heavy snow may cause travel disruption and difficult conditions. A separate yellow wind warning has been issued for southwest England due to the strong winds associated with Storm Goretti.
Mr. Bulmer emphasised the uncertainty, noting: "The exact track of the low is still uncertain, and these warnings are likely to be amended – and potentially escalated – over the coming days. It is therefore vital people keep up-to-date with the latest forecasts."
Second Major Snowfall Expected on Saturday
A second, potentially more extensive snow front is then projected to sweep across the UK on Saturday, January 10. Forecast maps suggest this system could cover a vast swathe of the country, affecting areas from Dundee and Edinburgh in Scotland, down through Newcastle and Manchester, and reaching Birmingham and London.
Some projections indicate that by the end of this twin assault, certain regions could see accumulations totalling up to 30 inches of snow.
Looking at the immediate forecast for Wednesday, January 7, the Met Office predicts an icy start for many with some sunshine. However, sleet and snow showers are expected across northern and northeastern Scotland, with thicker cloud and rain arriving later in Northern Ireland, southwest Wales, and southwest England.
Residents across the UK are advised to monitor official weather updates and prepare for potentially significant travel disruption from Thursday onwards.
