Extensive Snow System Set to Blanket England with Sub-Zero Temperatures
A significant winter weather event is poised to impact the United Kingdom, with forecasts indicating a snow bomb spanning 724 miles in width will arrive next week. This extensive system is expected to deliver substantial snowfall across numerous regions, particularly affecting 14 counties in England.
Severe Temperature Drops and Snowfall Timeline
According to the latest data from WX Charts, temperatures are projected to plummet dramatically. In Scotland, readings could drop as low as -12 degrees Celsius, while parts of England may experience lows around -6 degrees Celsius.
The snowfall is anticipated to commence at approximately 6pm on February 17, persisting through into February 18. Weather maps illustrate this development with distinct blue hues representing the advancing snow coverage across the country, based on projections from Met Desk data.
Counties at Risk of Significant Snow Accumulation
The areas identified as being most at risk from this impending snow event include:
- Cumbria
- Durham
- Greater Manchester
- Lancashire
- Northumberland
- The West Midlands
- Staffordshire
- Somerset
- Gloucestershire
- Greater London
- Oxfordshire
- Hampshire
- Suffolk
- Devon (potential light dusting)
Short-Term Weather Outlook and Regional Variations
Meteorologist Jo Farrow from Netweather TV has provided insight into the immediate forecast leading up to this major snow event. She notes a shift in conditions for the upcoming weekend, influenced by milder air associated with multiple weather fronts connected to a substantial low-pressure system in the Atlantic, referred to as Leonardo.
For Saturday, February 7, and Sunday, February 8, the freezing level is expected to rise. This change means snowfall will likely be confined to the highest peaks of the Scottish mountains, with rain anticipated elsewhere across northern Britain.
This represents a notable contrast to recent conditions. Scottish ski resorts have benefited from considerable snowfall this month, which they hope to retain during the February holiday period.
Weekend Conditions and Temperature Contrasts
While strong winds are not forecast for the weekend, the rising freezing level will bring rainfall, particularly to eastern Scotland during Sunday afternoon. Ms Farrow describes these conditions as continuing the dreary weather pattern experienced throughout the week.
Temperature variations will be pronounced across different regions:
- Shetland: Expected to remain around 4°C
- Southern Britain: Could reach 9 to 11°C, potentially higher with sunshine, creating a mild feel
- Northern Ireland and Scotland's Central Belt: May achieve temperatures up to 8°C, offering some relief from recent damp, cold conditions
Winds are predicted to originate from the south, southeast to east, drawing air from France and the Bay of Biscay. This pattern helps contain the severe winter cold over northeastern Europe and Russia, temporarily moderating conditions in parts of the UK before the anticipated snow arrives.
