The UK may be in for a wintry surprise as Christmas approaches, as the Met Office has predicted the possibility of precipitation in the final days before the holiday. Cold weather is set to sweep across the country, with northern England and parts of Scotland most likely to see their first snow of the season.
Snow and Cold Weather to Hit the UK
In the coming week, snow is expected to fall across Scotland, particularly in the Scottish Highlands and mountainous areas, as temperatures are forecast to plummet by as much as 12°C. The Met Office has stated that snow showers are typical for this time of year, especially at higher altitudes, but conditions are expected to become more intense across the north.
Honor Criswick, a meteorologist at the Met Office, explained that Scotland and Northern Ireland will experience blustery conditions and occasional snow showers. She mentioned:
“Plenty of showers around the coast of Scotland, Northern Ireland, plenty of blustery showers too. It’s going to feel quite chilly here, with some showers perhaps falling as snow over the high ground of Scotland.”
Forecasted Temperature Drops and Snowfall
Temperatures across the UK are expected to struggle to reach highs of only 7-8°C during the day, while colder air will bring nighttime temperatures close to freezing. In particular, areas in the north and on higher ground will see the mercury dip to around 0°C, intensifying the potential for snowfall.
Snow Showers and Rain Across the Country
The forecast from Tuesday, 17 December to Saturday, 21 December outlines unsettled weather across the UK, with snow and rain expected in various regions.
- Thursday, 19 December to Saturday, 21 December: The weather will turn windier and colder, with wintry sunshine expected across many regions. Areas in the north and west, particularly at higher altitudes, will experience wintry showers, including snow on the hills.
- Tuesday, 17 December: The day will begin breezy and mild in many parts of the country. Northern Ireland and Scotland will experience periods of rain, with heavier downpours expected in the west later in the day. By evening, England and Wales will start to see rain moving in from the west.
- Wednesday, 18 December: The weather will remain mild and breezy, with cloudy skies across the country. Heavy rain will move into Wales and south-western England, while Scotland could see light showers in the north-west.
Wind Warnings and What to Expect Over the Holidays
The Met Office has not yet issued any snow warnings, but a wind warning is in place for parts of the UK, including Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. This warning is valid until Friday, 20 December, due to high winds that may cause disruption to travel in these regions.
During the Christmas period, the forecast suggests:
- Strong winds and heavy rain in the north of the UK.
- The south is expected to experience drier conditions, with fewer disruptions from weather.
Could We See a White Christmas in 2024?
Despite snow being forecast for northern regions, the dream of a white Christmas in 2024 is unlikely to come to fruition across the UK. While snow is likely in the Scottish Highlands and other high-altitude regions in the north, it’s less likely to fall at lower levels across the rest of the UK.
Although snowfall could occur at lower levels, it is expected to be brief and not significant enough to create a full-blown winter wonderland. Nevertheless, the Met Office did note that snow is more likely in the north and at higher elevations. While lower altitudes in the north could experience some snow, it’s not expected to amount to a white Christmas for most.
Looking Beyond Christmas: More Snow Possible
As we move into 30 December to 13 January, the Met Office predicts that the unsettled weather will continue, with rain and snow expected in parts of the UK. However, snow will predominantly affect the north and higher ground.
The forecast suggests:
- The northern parts of the UK are likely to experience the wettest and windiest weather.
- Southern regions are expected to stay milder and drier, with fewer weather disruptions.
Whether you’re hoping for snow or simply trying to avoid travel delays, the Met Office will continue to update the forecast as conditions evolve over the coming days.
Got a reaction? Share your thoughts in the comments
Enjoyed this article? Subscribe to our free newsletter for engaging stories, exclusive content, and the latest news.
