Snow is expected to make a comeback in the UK very soon, with weather models indicating the possibility of heavy snowfall rates of up to four inches per hour. The ECMWF weather model predicts that scattered snow showers could hit various parts of the UK starting on January 23, affecting regions such as Northern Ireland, Wales, the north of England, and Scotland around midday. The most intense snowfall is likely to hit Scotland first, particularly targeting Glasgow.
Subsequent maps show a continuation of snow showers across the UK for five consecutive days. On January 24, Bristol, the south-west, Wales, Manchester, and Aberdeen are expected to experience snowfall. The trend is anticipated to persist in the northern regions and Scotland.
The scattered snow pattern is projected to continue on January 25, but by January 26, heavier snowfall is anticipated to concentrate in Scotland and South Wales, potentially reaching up to four inches per hour by 6am.
Moving to January 27, the weather maps indicate another snow front bringing heavy snowfall rates of four inches per hour to southern England, with Brighton likely to witness snowy conditions.
Snow coverage maps for this five-day period illustrate widespread snowfall across Wales, central and northern England, Northern Ireland, and most parts of Scotland on January 24. By January 27, snow coverage extends to Brighton, Southampton, northern regions, and Wales. The data suggests significant snow accumulations in the Scottish Highlands, while other regions may see lesser accumulations, with the Lake District expecting around 9cm and lower-lying areas likely to see 1-2cm of snow settling.
The Met Office also hints at the possibility of further snowfall before the end of January. Their forecast for January 20 to 29 suggests a mix of Atlantic weather systems and colder conditions from the east, leading to potential snowfall across various parts of the UK.
This snowy forecast follows Storm Goretti, a severe weather event that brought strong winds and substantial snowfall to parts of the UK earlier this month, including a red weather warning in some areas.