Britons preparing for the festive season should brace for a chilly and blustery Christmas Day, according to the latest forecast from the Met Office. While a widespread white Christmas remains unlikely, some parts of the country could see a festive dusting of snow as they open their presents.
A Brisk and Biting Christmas Day
The national forecaster indicates that Christmas Day will be characterised by cold temperatures and brisk winds, although millions across the UK will still see sunshine. The chilly conditions are set to move in from Christmas Eve, with strengthening winds making the air feel even colder.
These winds will cause temperatures, which are already forecast to be slightly below average for late December, to feel close to freezing for much of the country. Met Office meteorologist Becky Mitchell commented on the outlook, stating: "It's a bit colder than average, not unusual for the time of year, but in terms of averages it would be a bit below."
Frosty Nights and a Slim Chance of Snow
As night falls on Christmas Day, the cold will intensify significantly. Temperatures are predicted to plummet below freezing across large swathes of the UK, with the most severe conditions expected in the north. Forecasters suggest that parts of northern Scotland could experience lows of minus 5°C.
While the Met Office is not officially predicting a white Christmas, there remains a small possibility of snowfall in specific areas. The most likely location for any festive flurries is Dartmoor, where a light dusting cannot be entirely ruled out. For the vast majority, however, the day will be dry but cold.
Boxing Day Outlook and Coastal Warnings
The weather pattern is expected to hold for Boxing Day, offering more dry and sunny spells for most. Some southern counties may see clouds begin to accumulate, but widespread rain is not anticipated.
A key feature of the forecast involves easterly winds affecting the south of the UK. This has prompted a warning for those considering a traditional Christmas Day or Boxing Day swim, as these winds could whip up big waves along the coast, creating potentially hazardous conditions for swimmers.
In summary, the UK is set for a classic, crisp Christmas weather scenario: wrapping up warm will be essential for any outdoor activities, the sunshine will be welcome but lacking in warmth, and only a very few might glimpse a fleeting touch of snow to complete the festive picture.
