The Met Office has unveiled the specific areas across England that have the highest chance of experiencing a white Christmas this year, as colder conditions are predicted to settle in for the festive period.
Where Snow is Most Likely on December 25th
According to meteorologists, a shift towards drier but colder weather is expected around Christmas Day, driven by an area of high pressure. While widespread, significant snowfall remains unlikely, there is a possibility of light wintry showers in certain regions.
Marco Petagna, a Met Office forecaster, highlighted that the south coast of England, particularly towards South Devon and Cornwall, currently has "the greatest chance of seeing the odd wintry flurry." He also clarified the official definition, noting that for a day to be declared a white Christmas, only a single snowflake needs to be observed falling anywhere in the UK.
Christmas Day Forecast: Dry, Cold, and Breezy
The overall picture for December 25th is predicted to be predominantly dry, with a mix of cloud and sunny spells. However, a few light showers are possible, especially along southwestern coasts later in the day.
Daytime temperatures could struggle to reach just 2°C, and a strong easterly breeze will make it feel even colder for anyone venturing outdoors.
Paul Gundersen, Chief Meteorologist at the Met Office, addressed the popular festive query: "The question we get most at this time of year is about the chance of snow on Christmas Day. There’s a small chance of light showers, which, if they occur, will be a mix of rain, sleet and some snow over higher ground. The chance is relatively low as it stands."
Advice for Festive Planning
The Met Office is urging the public to stay informed as the holiday approaches. Gundersen added: "As always, we advise everyone to keep up to date with the latest Met Office forecasts and warnings, especially if you’re making plans over the festive period."
The official outlook for the run-up to Christmas states that high pressure will bring "drier, more settled, albeit colder weather with chilly easterly winds," with the potential for some light rain or wintry flurries at times in the south.
Looking ahead to Tuesday, December 23rd, the forecast is for a mostly cloudy day across the country with patchy light rain in parts of northern Scotland. Easterly winds are expected to increase, making it feel noticeably colder.
