The UK is preparing for a significant snow event, with forecasts predicting up to 34 centimeters (13 inches) of snow striking the country in early December. This heavy snowfall is expected to begin around December 10 and could persist for several days, affecting large swaths of England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Scotland just ahead of Christmas.
Fourteen counties in England are particularly at risk, including the West Midlands, Greater Manchester, Staffordshire, Lancashire, Warwickshire, Shropshire, Worcestershire, and Herefordshire. Southern counties such as Hampshire, Sussex, Devon, Dorset, Cornwall, and Greater London will also experience snowfall, although accumulations will generally be lighter there.
Snow depth projections for mid-December indicate the most substantial snowfall will occur in northern Scotland, with totals possibly reaching 34 cm, while southern England might see lighter snow layers of approximately 1 cm.
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According to the Met Office forecast from December 2 onwards, the UK will experience changeable and unsettled weather conditions dominated by low-pressure systems. These systems will bring widespread showers or long spells of rain across much of the country, punctuated by brief drier intervals.
The wettest weather is likely to affect western regions, yet heavy rain could occur nearly anywhere. Snowfall will primarily be concentrated in northern highlands, accompanied by strong winds due to prevailing low-pressure dominance.
Temperatures overall are expected to remain close to average, although colder spells may occasionally impact northern areas. Frost is anticipated during clearer and drier nights, adding to the wintry conditions as December progresses.