Britons are preparing for a severe winter onslaught as meteorological charts predict a massive 685-mile blizzard set to sweep across the United Kingdom this weekend. The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for snow, covering multiple regions from the northern tip of Scotland down to the southern coast of England.
Extensive Snowfall Forecast
Fresh weather maps, compiled using MetDesk data, reveal a substantial blanket of snow poised to smother numerous towns and cities nationwide. The stretch from Wick in the far north to Southampton in the south is expected to be blanketed, with up to 98 centimetres (35 inches) of snowfall forecast in areas surrounding Inverness on Sunday alone.
Met Office Warnings and Predictions
The Met Office predicts that rain spreading eastwards on Saturday night will initially fall as snow, even at lower elevations temporarily. This will be followed by a transition to rain as warmer air moves in from the west. Chief Forecaster Rebekah Hicks has emphasised the risks, stating that snow could reach lower levels across northern England and Scotland from Saturday night into Sunday.
Accumulations are expected to vary significantly based on altitude. Brief snow accumulations of 1 to 3 centimetres are possible at lower levels, with 3 to 7 centimetres likely above approximately 150 metres altitude. In higher terrains above 400 metres, accumulations could reach 10 to 15 centimetres.
Additional Hazards and Precautions
Ice poses a serious additional danger, particularly across northeast England and sections of Scotland. Rainfall hitting frozen surfaces may create extremely hazardous conditions. The Met Office advises that the snow will gradually turn to rain as the front moves east across the country on Sunday, with heavy rain and windy conditions expected in coastal areas.
Rebekah Hicks has urged the public to stay informed, noting that additional warnings may be required. She encouraged everyone to keep up to date with the latest forecasts and any new alerts issued by the Met Office.
List of Affected Cities
The following 18 UK cities are forecast to experience significant snowfall this weekend:
- Plymouth
- Bristol
- Swansea
- Birmingham
- Stoke on Trent
- Manchester
- Blackpool
- Glasgow
- Dundee
- Aberdeen
- Edinburgh
- Inverness
- Perth
- London
- Southampton
- Newcastle
- Oxford
- Gloucester
As the harsh winter conditions persist, authorities are monitoring the situation closely. The public is advised to take necessary precautions, avoid unnecessary travel in affected areas, and follow official guidance to ensure safety during this significant weather event.
