Britain is set for another significant bout of wintry weather as forecasters predict a severe Arctic blast will sweep across the country in early December, bringing the potential for up to seven inches of snow.
Major Snow Event Expected
Meteorologists from Metdesk have pinpointed Saturday, December 6, as the most likely date for the next major snow event. This freezing low-pressure system is expected to drive in from the northwest, moving slowly southwards and affecting a large swathe of the nation.
While temperatures have recently rebounded from last week's cold snap—with a high of 11.7°C recorded near Preston, Lancashire—the mercury is forecast to plunge once more, setting the stage for widespread snowfall that may persist for several days.
Which Areas Will Be Hit Hardest?
Detailed weather maps reveal that the heaviest snow is anticipated across the Scottish Highlands, Cumbria, and Staffordshire. These regions could see accumulations of up to seven inches (18 centimetres).
However, the cold front's reach will be extensive. The maps show white hues indicating snowfall as far south as the Cotswolds on the morning of December 6. Lighter dustings are also forecast for most of Wales and the Northwest of England later that day.
Wet and Cold Lead-Up to the Snow
In the days preceding the Arctic storm, the UK will experience predominantly cold and wet conditions. Forecasters at Netweather warn of particularly heavy rain, especially in western areas, where more than 100mm could fall.
Nick Finnis, writing on the Netweather blog, highlighted additional risks: "We may start to see an increase in flooding issues in the west and perhaps far south. Spring tides at the end of next week and into the following weekend could bring a risk of coastal flooding too, should there be strong winds."
The BBC Weather forecast for December 1-7 also suggests a cold and unsettled period, with a risk of rain pushing southwards and eastwards. The positioning of high pressure remains a key factor; if it settles over Scandinavia, colder flows could become more established.
Despite this significant cold snap, it is considered unlikely that this pattern will continue throughout the month, making a widespread white Christmas a less probable prospect for now.
