The UK is bracing for a potential return to wintry conditions, with forecasters warning of colder temperatures and a risk of snow towards the end of January. This comes after the country recently recovered from the impacts of Storm Goretti.
Aftermath of Storm Goretti and the Forecast Battle
Storm Goretti, which hit earlier this month, was labelled a "multi-hazard event" by the Met Office. It brought severe gusts of wind approaching 100mph and triggered a rare red warning for "dangerous, stormy" conditions in south-west England.
Looking ahead, meteorologists predict a climatic tug-of-war. From next week, milder Atlantic air systems will clash with colder, high pressure from the east. Initially, the Atlantic influence is expected to dominate, leading to cloudy, changeable weather with showers and average temperatures.
Increased Chance of a Cold Snap and Snow
The forecast becomes more uncertain, but notably colder, towards the closing days of January. The Met Office has stated there is an increased chance that conditions will turn colder across the UK during this period.
This shift significantly raises the potential for snowfall in various parts of the country. A Met Office spokesperson commented, "This aspect of the forecast is still somewhat uncertain but the potential transition to colder weather also increases the chance of snow across parts of the country."
Recent Disruption and Current Conditions
The warning follows recent wintry chaos. Last week, thousands of children in northern Scotland missed school due to disruptive snow and ice, which prompted yellow weather warnings. In parts of England and Wales, officials reported the "worst snowfall in a decade," with depths reaching 15 to 25cm.
While temperatures have since stabilised, the UK has not been free from alerts. This week has seen yellow warnings for rain and fog across sections of England and Wales, indicating continued unsettled conditions before the anticipated late-month cooldown.
The public is advised to stay informed via the latest Met Office forecasts and warnings as the situation develops towards the end of January.
