A significant snowfall is expected in parts of the UK in the upcoming days as Europe faces blizzard conditions.
According to the ECMWF weather model maps, substantial snowfall is predicted across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland on January 11. The maps indicate that by 6am, the snow will have shifted towards the southeast of England, particularly affecting London and Kent.
Although snowfall rates could reach up to 4cm per hour in some regions, the snow is expected to mainly accumulate in the far east of England. This additional snowfall will deepen existing levels, with snow depths reaching up to 20 inches in certain areas post-blizzards.
Sections of the UK, including the Pennines and Snowdonia, may experience up to 12cm (4.7 inches) of snow by noon. However, Scotland is likely to witness the heaviest snow accumulation, with parts of the west coast expected to be covered in as much as 50cm (19.6 inches) of snow.
Moreover, extensive snowfall is anticipated across Europe, with northern France and parts of Belgium also bracing for up to 50cm of snow. The most significant snowfall is predicted in the rugged fjords of the Norwegian coast, particularly around Stavanger, where six feet of snow could accumulate during the same period.
This weather forecast coincides with the UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA) issuing upgraded amber warnings for England, citing potential significant impacts on health and social care services due to the impending cold spell.
The Met Office has released multiple weather warnings for snow and ice until Sunday, covering at least 79 locations. Temperatures are expected to plummet to -12C over the weekend, with conditions varying across regions.
The Met Office’s forecast indicates a dry New Year’s Eve for much of England and Wales, with sunny intervals and scattered showers. Cold weather is expected, with wintry showers likely in Scotland later in the day.
Tonight is expected to be windy with rain, followed by wintry showers in Scotland, while other areas will remain drier with clear spells, leading to frost and patchy mist or fog under clearer skies.
New Year’s Day will be cold and windy, especially in the north and east, with wintry showers likely in northern Scotland and along western coasts, while other regions will remain dry with sunny periods.