Large parts of the United Kingdom are preparing for a significant wintry downturn, with forecasts predicting up to four inches of snow from Friday, December 5th. Weather maps indicate a sharp shift in conditions, bringing heavy rain to many but substantial snow accumulations to others.
Where and When the Snow Will Strike
According to data from WX Charts, which utilises Met Desk information, the snowfall is expected to commence around 6pm on Friday. The most severe impacts are anticipated north of the border in Scotland. Key cities in the firing line include Dundee, Glasgow, Perth, and Aberdeen, where the heaviest accumulations are likely.
Maps using the GFS model show blotches of snowfall developing over these regions. While much of the UK will be contending with a band of heavy rain, these Scottish areas could see the mercury plummet enough for significant snow.
National Forecast: Rain, Wind, and Unsettled Skies
The broader national picture for the end of the week remains unsettled. The Met Office forecast for Thursday details rain moving north and east across most areas, with brighter, showery weather following in southern England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Looking ahead to Friday through Sunday, the outlook suggests early fog giving way to brighter but breezy conditions on Friday. However, further wind and rain are forecast to sweep northeastwards through the day. Saturday is expected to be brighter with blustery showers, while more rain is predicted for Sunday.
Echoing this, the BBC forecast states that Friday will start partly cloudy before heavy rain pushes through from the south-west alongside increasing winds later on. There is also a risk of gales for southern and northern coasts. The Beeb's team added that Sunday may turn drier initially before another pulse of rain arrives from the south in the afternoon.
Preparing for the Winter Onslaught
This early December snow event serves as a stark reminder that winter is firmly taking hold. Residents in the affected areas, particularly in central and northern Scotland, are advised to:
- Check travel forecasts before setting out on Friday evening and over the weekend.
- Be aware of potential for disruption on roads and possibly to public transport.
- Monitor updates from the Met Office and other official sources as the situation develops.
The contrasting weather—heavy snow for some, driving rain for others—highlights the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of the UK's winter climate.
