Weather maps have turned an icy blue as temperatures plunge and snow looks set to fall almost the entire length of the UK. The latest modelling from forecaster WX Charts shows depths in excess of 40cm (15.7 inches) in central Scotland, while a band of snow stretches down through the Pennines and as far south as Kent at midday on February 12.
Scotland looks set to be blanketed in a thick layer of snow, but depths may be much lighter in England, with 3-6cm (1.2-2.4 inches), according to one of WX Charts’ maps generated on Saturday (January 31). The same date could see temperatures well below freezing, with -3C to -9C in Scotland and 0C to -5C in England, another WX Charts map shows. Aberdeen might see -7C, Newcastle -4C and Hull -2C if the models prove to be accurate this far ahead.
WX Charts’ maps more broadly show rain sweeping in off the Atlantic in the first two weeks of next month, with snow possible in places, although this can’t be guaranteed as far ahead as February 12 and beyond.
The Met Office says forecasting snow accurately in Britain can be tricky because of the country’s island location, with sea temperatures in part making the difference between rain or snow.
The same forecaster’s latest 10-day trend shows the jet stream sending low-pressure systems and more rain our way in the coming days. It says this might turn into snow when it hits colder air in the east.
In its long-range forecast covering February 5-14, the Met Office says bands of rain spreading northwards « could » turn into snow on higher ground in England and Scotland.
It adds: « A subtle shift southwards of these areas of low pressure is anticipated during the second week of February, which may allow a greater chance of colder air to spread across northern UK at least, bringing an increased risk of wintry hazards for a time. »
Netweather’s long-range forecast suggests snow is likely on high ground and possibly at low levels at times as well. The forecaster says this is most likely between southern Scotland, north Wales and the Midlands.
It says northern Scotland can expect sunshine, snow showers and build ups of snow on low ground for a significant part of the week beginning February 9.
Met Office UK five day weather forecast
Saturday, January 31 – Wednesday, February 4
Headline: Staying unsettled for the rest of the weekend.
Many places remain cloudy tonight with further showers or longer spells of rain. These are most likely in northern areas. It turns drier in central and southeast England, with any breaks in the cloud letting in a few fog patches.
Sunday sees cloud with more outbreaks of rain. It will tend to become heaviest towards the east during the day with brighter skies developing in the west. The northeast will be windy.
Monday to Wednesday remains unsettled with showers or longer spells of heavy rain for most areas. Brisk winds are expected too. Northern hills will see more snow and temperatures will be below average in the north.
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