The UK is bracing for a more severe snowstorm than initially predicted, with fresh forecasts indicating up to six inches of snow could fall before December 31, coinciding with New Year’s Eve celebrations. According to the advanced GFS weather model, snowfall could begin as early as 6 a.m. on December 30, primarily affecting Scotland and northern England.
Initial reports from WX Charts show Aberdeen could receive up to three inches early on, with totals potentially rising to five inches or more. Other vulnerable areas include Dundee and parts of Aberdeenshire, while southern regions such as the West Midlands might experience significant snowfall as well.
Major cities like Manchester, Stoke-on-Trent, and Birmingham are among those expected to see snow blanketing streets. Yorkshire, Cumbria, Northumberland, Durham, and Tyne and Wear may also be covered in snow, presenting challenging conditions across a broad swath of the country.
Lighter snow showers are forecasted in East Anglia, Kent, Essex, and even central London. Snowfall is predicted to continue into December 31, potentially disrupting holiday plans.
The BBC Weather forecast from December 29 to January 11 emphasizes a colder spell with predominantly dry weather. The forecast highlights uncertainty for the period following New Year’s Day, with varying models suggesting high pressure will dominate near or north of the UK, influencing temperatures and precipitation.
Generally, conditions are expected to be drier with low wind speeds, leading to periods of frost and fog and temperatures near or slightly below the seasonal average. However, by the second week of January, indications of high pressure shifting southward could introduce milder air and more unsettled, wetter weather later in the month.
Residents are advised to prepare for potentially challenging travel and weather disruptions as the UK faces this intense snow event leading into the new year.