The UK is bracing for a significant snow event this weekend, with three of the four Home Nations expected to be hit hard. According to WX Charts, which uses Met Desk data, snow could blanket parts of England, Scotland, and Wales as temperatures fall below zero degrees Celsius.
New weather models predict bands of rain sweeping southward across the UK on Sunday, December 21. With colder air in place, some of this rain is expected to turn into snow. Areas particularly at risk include South West England — notably the Cotswolds — as well as regions in the Midlands.
Northern England’s North West, including Lancashire, Greater Manchester, and Cheshire, along with south Wales, also face the likelihood of snow flurries. In Scotland, the Highlands are predicted to be hardest hit, with temperatures dipping to lows around -2°C.
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Forecasts suggest the worst-affected locations could see snow depths reaching approximately 20cm. The Met Office outlook for late December notes that high pressure will probably dominate the UK weather, increasing the chances of dry spells compared to earlier winter conditions. However, occasional showers or rain bands, possibly wintry in nature, remain possible, especially moving into January. Temperatures are expected to remain close to normal seasonal averages.
BBC Weather’s short-term forecast paints a mixed picture for the days ahead: cloudy skies across England and Wales with rain advancing eastwards, while Scotland and Northern Ireland experience clearer spells, interspersed with low cloud, mist, and patchy fog. Showers are expected in the far north-west.
Looking ahead to Tuesday, December 16, the forecast predicts mostly cloudy conditions in the south with rain spreading to the south-east. North-west Scotland will continue to see showers, while other areas enjoy drier weather and occasional sunshine.
By midweek, wet and windy conditions are expected on Wednesday, as heavy rain and strong winds move from the west, continuing into Thursday. Friday is forecast to feature blustery winds and persistent showers in the north-west, with longer spells of rain developing later. The south and east are expected to see drier conditions.
Residents across the affected regions are advised to prepare for wintry conditions and stay updated with the latest weather warnings as this snow event unfolds.