The West Midlands is preparing for a severe bout of wintry weather, with forecasters predicting up to eight inches (20cm) of snow in some counties by Friday midday. The region is set to bear the brunt of the latest cold snap, driven by Storm Goretti, with the Met Office maintaining at least one weather warning every day until Saturday, 10 January 2026.
Areas Set for Heaviest Snowfall
According to the latest Met Office alerts, the snowfall will intensify in the early hours of Friday morning. The most significant accumulations, potentially reaching eight inches, are expected across Herefordshire, Worcestershire, and Warwickshire. The East Midlands will see the snow arrive later, from mid-afternoon onwards.
Areas like Northamptonshire are forecast to receive around six inches of snow. James Madden, a forecaster from Exacta Weather, explained that wintry fronts will bring moderate to heavy snow showers, with settling snow likely even at lower levels across central and southern regions.
Freezing Temperatures and Extended Warnings
The hazardous snow will be accompanied by a deep chill. Temperatures are predicted to plunge as low as -10°C to -12°C in the coldest parts of the north on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, with widespread frost and ice hazards developing across the country.
The BBC Weather team confirms that temperatures will remain below the January average until later this week, with further snow expected. A shift to milder conditions is anticipated next week for southern Britain, where rain will become more prevalent, but colder outbreaks may persist in the north, particularly in Scotland.
Staying Safe During the Cold Snap
With daily weather warnings in place, residents are urged to take precautions. The key risks include:
- Significant travel disruption on roads and possibly rail networks.
- Dangerous conditions due to ice and compacted snow.
- Potential for isolated power outages in the worst-affected areas.
Authorities advise checking travel updates before setting out, allowing extra time for journeys, and ensuring vulnerable neighbours are safe and have essential supplies.
