The UK is bracing for potential widespread snowfall this weekend, according to the latest forecast from the Met Office. The agency has outlined three possible low-pressure scenarios for Saturday, two of which could bring snow. The Met Office emphasizes that different regions might experience heavy rain, strong winds, or hill snow, depending on the movement of the low-pressure system.
In the first scenario, with a 45% likelihood, the low-pressure system is expected to track from the south-west of England to East Anglia. This scenario could result in heavy rain across Wales, central England, and southern England, with possible snowfall over the southern Pennines, accompanied by gales on North Sea coasts and the south coast.
The second scenario, with a 35% probability, involves a weaker low-pressure system tracking along the south coast of England. This scenario could bring heavy rain to southern counties on Saturday, but no snow is expected.
The third scenario, with a 20% chance, anticipates the low-pressure system tracking from the Irish Sea across the UK towards the north-east of England. This scenario could potentially lead to extensive snowfall in hills in northern England and North Wales, along with heavy rain in lower-lying areas. Coastal regions north of the low-pressure system may experience strong easterly winds.
Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Steven Keates stated, “While the weekend is expected to be unsettled, there is uncertainty regarding the exact path of the low-pressure system. Slight variations in its trajectory could significantly impact the areas experiencing the heaviest rain and strongest winds.”
Keates added, “This means that some areas may face disruptive weather conditions, while others may experience milder effects. The Met Office continues to monitor developments closely and will provide updated forecasts as the situation evolves.”
Meanwhile, a yellow wind warning is currently in effect for parts of western and northern Scotland from 4pm today until 11am tomorrow. Gusts reaching 60-70mph, with isolated areas possibly exceeding 75mph, could cause travel disruptions and impact outdoor activities, as per the Met Office.