A shift in weather patterns during the second half of December will bring an end to a brief mild spell forecast later this week, with sub-zero temperatures predicted through the New Year and into 2021. Polar conditions could bring a risk of rare 'ice storms' as high pressure over Russia draws in cold air from the east.
Jim Dale, meteorologist for British Weather Services, said: 'The very cold weather over Russia is the doorway to a possible cold Beast from the East affecting Britain later in the year or early next year.' He warned that if the jet stream moves south, cold air could be dragged in from the east, increasing the risk of snow and severe winter weather.
Britain will turn milder from mid-week as temperatures nudge closer to average, with low pressure bringing rain and wind through the weekend. However, colder conditions are expected to return towards the end of December, with a potential New Year freeze on the cards. Long-range forecasters warn that January could see heavy snow and ice storms as bands of stormy weather clash with cold air stagnated across the UK.
Exacta Weather’s James Madden said: 'January looks set to continue with the cold theme and although snow will still be a feature for many, ice storms may present a risk as bands of stormy weather push in off the Atlantic and clash with cooler weather stagnated across the UK.' He added that there is a growing risk of potentially heavy snow events through the start of next year.
