UK Weather: Snowfall, -5°C Freeze and 70 km/h Winds to Slam England Just Before Christmas

A cold snap will hit the UK just days before Christmas, with icy temperatures, blustery winds and snow in some places predicted. Will your region wake up to a white Christmas, or will rain and strong gusts dominate the festive season? Travel plans could be severely disrupted if the weather takes a dramatic turn for the worse.

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A Red London Bus Makes Its Way Through The Snow As A Snowstorm Descends On Central London.
UK Weather: Snowfall, -5°C Freeze and 70 km/h Winds to Slam England Just Before Christmas - © en.econostrum.info

England is bracing for severe winter weather, with gale-force winds of up to 70 km/h, sub-zero temperatures dipping to -5°C, and isolated snowfall expected across certain areas. According to forecasts from WXCharts and other meteorological experts, the days leading up to Christmas will bring significant weather disruptions to much of the UK.

A Sharp Drop in Temperatures

From 21 December, a notable cold snap will take hold across the country. According to Jamie Brassington, writing for Coventry Live, northern England and Scotland will be the hardest hit, with temperatures plunging as low as -5°C. The Scottish Highlands, particularly around Fort William, will face the brunt of the chill, with icy winds reaching 65 km/h and heavy snowfall predicted.

Northern English cities, such as Manchester and Newcastle, are also expected to see temperatures hovering around freezing. By contrast, southern areas, including Devon and Somerset, will contend with strong winds and heavy rain. However, temperatures in these regions are forecast to remain milder, at around 3°C.

The Met Office long-range forecast for 17 to 26 December outlines: Unsettled conditions, with heavy rain and strong winds, are expected to affect most areas. Sleet and snow are likely, particularly on higher ground in the north.”

Weather Maps Reveal Freezing Temperatures On The Way
Weather maps reveal freezing temperatures on the way. (Image: WX Charts).

Hopes and Realities of a White Christmas

While many are wishing for a snowy Christmas, the likelihood of significant snow is slim for much of the UK. Historical records show that the last widespread white Christmas occurred in 2010, when 83% of weather stations reported snow lying on the ground. This year, however, snowfalls are expected to be largely restricted to elevated areas in Scotland and northern England.

For lowland areas in the south, precipitation is more likely to take the form of rain, making a blanket of festive snow improbable.

Areas of Concern

  • Scottish Highlands: Up to 3 cm of snow per hour forecast between Christmas and 28 December.
  • Devon, Somerset, and West Wales: Moderate risk of snow, but significant rainfall is more likely.
  • Cornwall and Liverpool: Strong winds and intermittent rain predicted.

High Winds Pose Travel Risks

With winds expected to reach speeds of 70 km/h, travel disruption could be a major concern. Southern England, particularly the south-west coastal regions, is likely to be the hardest hit, with ferry crossings and road travel potentially affected by hazardous conditions. The strongest winds are forecast between 21 and 24 December, coinciding with the busy pre-Christmas travel period.

Advice for Residents

Experts recommend the following precautions:

  • Keep abreast of local weather warnings issued by the Met Office.
  • Plan travel carefully, considering alternative routes and timings for long journeys.
  • Prepare for potential power outages in areas most exposed to the severe conditions.

Unpredictable Year-End Weather

After this bout of turbulent weather, a brief respite is anticipated from 28 December, though occasional showers may persist. Looking ahead to the new year, forecasts suggest a mix of rain, winds, and frost, with temperatures hovering slightly above seasonal norms. However, bouts of fog and freezing conditions may present further challenges as 2024 begins.

Residents are advised to remain vigilant, stay informed, and take necessary precautions to ensure safe travel and preparations for the holidays.

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