Snow may make a comeback in the UK this week, as sophisticated weather models predict an Arctic blast that could bring up to 4cm of snow to certain regions. The ECMWF weather model indicates that an Atlantic system will move across the UK on Friday, with rain expected in most areas, although there is a possibility of snowfall in some locations.
By approximately 6pm on Friday, heavy snow is projected to fall in North Wales, while light flurries may occur in the Lake District. Southern and central England are likely to experience a band of rain, with Northern Ireland also anticipating heavy downpours.
Subsequently, the snow is forecasted to shift northwards, with heavy snowfall expected in the far north of England and southern Scotland by 9pm. Some light snow may also fall in the Midlands, south of Birmingham, around the same time. By midnight, the focus of snowfall is expected to be in central and northern Scotland, although sporadic flurries could persist in the northeast of England.
Snow depth charts for midnight on Friday suggest that areas in the Midlands, Staffordshire, Yorkshire, the Lake District, the Pennines, and both southern and northern Scotland could see snow accumulation. The highest snowfall accumulations are anticipated in Galloway Forest Park, where around 4cm of snow could settle.
While the Met Office has not yet confirmed snow for the week, its forecast for Thursday to Saturday indicates continued rain and showers across the country. Temperatures are expected to be around the seasonal average during this period.
Looking ahead to December 6 to 15, the Met Office predicts unsettled conditions with showers and longer spells of rain affecting much of the country. A frontal zone moving east on Saturday may bring locally heavy rain, especially on exposed hills. Showers, potentially heavy and thundery, are expected after this front passes, with the possibility of more heavy rain across most areas on Monday. Temperatures are likely to be close to average, with wet and breezy conditions making it feel chilly, although frost and fog are not expected during this unsettled period.