The United Kingdom is preparing for a significant winter weather event, with forecasters warning of a major snowstorm set to arrive next weekend. New data indicates a substantial band of snow, potentially up to ten inches deep, will sweep across the country.
Forecast Details and Expected Impact
According to the latest projections from WX Charts, a vast area of precipitation will move across Britain on Saturday, January 17. This system is expected to bring heavy snow to parts of England, Scotland, and Wales. Some weather outlets have already labelled the incoming system a "monster" storm, suggesting it could be more severe than last week's Storm Goretti.
The most significant accumulations are predicted for the Cairngorms in the Scottish Highlands, where the Met Desk data suggests up to 10 inches (25cm) could settle on the highest peaks by the end of the weekend. In England, areas around the Peak District and the Yorkshire Dales are also at risk of being blanketed by the white stuff.
Expert Analysis and Broader Outlook
James Madden, a forecaster from Exacta Weather, provided insight into the broader pattern. "Low pressure to the north and cool southerly winds in terms of developing temperatures to ground level and for the time of the year will still give a fresher and unsettled feel to affairs," he said.
He added that the upcoming week would see showers moving eastwards for many, with the rest of the working week following a similar trend of unsettled conditions. This will include further periods of heavy rain showers interspersed with sunshine, particularly around midweek as high and low pressure systems battle over the UK.
A separate Netweather TV forecast for late January indicates temperatures are likely to be slightly above the long-term average, with precipitation totals potentially closer to normal than in the preceding fortnight. The forecast notes a possibility of sunshine ending up above normal if a colder, drier spell with polar air arrives, though this remains uncertain.
While it may feel less cold than recently at the start of the week, nothing exceptionally mild is expected, with temperatures hovering around the seasonal average for many, particularly in southern and western regions.
