The UK is braced for a second wave of severe wintry weather this week, with forecasters warning of a significant snow bomb set to strike on Thursday. This comes as an entrenched Arctic cold snap continues to grip the nation, with temperatures having already plunged to a bitter -10.9C in Shap, Cumbria, on Monday.
Thursday's Snow Threat and Forecast Uncertainty
The Met Office is closely monitoring a band of low pressure expected to move in from the southwest early on Thursday morning. Meteorologist Aidan McGivern highlighted the uncertainty around the system's exact track, but confirmed that both potential scenarios point to widespread snow across most UK regions.
The most likely outcome is for the heaviest snowfall to hit the Midlands through Thursday morning and afternoon. "Wind and rain for southern parts of the UK, central areas seeing the risks of disruption from snow," Mr McGivern stated. The cold air blanketing the country means any precipitation brought by the low will fall as snow, leading to further travel disruption.
Ongoing Freeze and Widespread Disruption
The current freeze shows no sign of relenting. Following Monday's lows, which also saw -9.4C in Shawbury, Shropshire, temperatures are forecast to remain chilly all week, especially in northern England and Scotland. Icy conditions are expected to persist over the weekend.
The Met Office has warned that travel delays on roads are likely throughout the week, with the potential for stranded vehicles. Rail and air travel may also face delays and cancellations. The impending weather also threatens the FA Cup third round this weekend, following last weekend's football postponements.
Expert Analysis and Further Warnings
Jo Farrow, a meteorologist with NetWeather, provided further detail on the blog, stating: "Eyes are turning to a low pressure signal later on Thursday. The UKV model has a significant low pressure for Thursday night, bringing severe gales... with heavy frontal rain from the southwest."
She explained this rain will turn to snow as it reaches northern Britain and Northern Ireland, creating a "wet, wintry and wild Friday" as the low moves over the country. The Met Office may issue further weather warnings as the situation develops.
