A significant winter weather system, dubbed a 'snow bomb', is poised to strike large parts of the United Kingdom later this month, with forecast maps indicating that nearly half of England will be impacted by heavy flurries.
Forecast Maps Paint a Wintry Picture
According to data from WX Charts, a massive band of snow approximately 514 miles long will sweep across the country. The most intense period is predicted for 6pm on Tuesday, January 27. The charts show a prominent purple streak, signifying heavy snowfall, targeting southern regions.
While England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland are all likely to experience some snow activity, the south of England and specific western areas are expected to bear the brunt. The counties most at risk include Devon, Cornwall, Hampshire, Somerset, Gloucestershire, Dorset, and Sussex.
Unusual Pattern Spares Northern and Eastern Regions
In an unusual twist, the forecast indicates a sharp dividing line. Everywhere north of Herefordshire is likely to be spared from the heaviest snow. This means counties such as Greater Manchester, Cumbria, Durham, Northumberland, and the entirety of the north west and north east of England are set to escape the worst.
Similarly, the east coast of England is also expected to avoid the significant accumulation. Southern Wales and western parts of Northern Ireland, however, are in line to be hit alongside the southern English counties.
Meteorological Context and Upcoming Battle
Nick Finnis from Netweather TV provided analysis of the broader weather patterns leading into this event. He stated that the weather will be "fairly slow-moving over the next few days," with temperatures a little above average due to a southerly flow.
"From Tuesday, we start to see more energy injected into the weather off the Atlantic," Finnis explained, noting the arrival of a strong jet stream from the west. This will bring low-pressure systems close to the southwest, leading to windier and more changeable conditions with spells of rain or showers spreading north.
Looking further ahead, Finnis highlighted a developing conflict: "From the weekend, we will start to see a battle develop right over the UK between two opposing weather regimes." On one side, Atlantic low-pressure systems will push mild, moist air, while the other side could bring colder conditions, setting the stage for potential winter weather disruptions.
