The possibility of experiencing a white Christmas is diminishing, according to the Met Office. Temperatures are expected to drop in the upcoming days, especially during the nights, due to a strong easterly wind. While temperatures reached 12.8C in Brize Norton, Oxfordshire, on Monday, forecasters anticipate near-freezing daytime temperatures over the weekend.
There is a chance for snow, but the Met Office is confident that a white Christmas is unlikely. Meteorologist Annie Shuttleworth mentioned that the likelihood of widespread snow on Christmas day is currently very low. Different computer models suggest high pressure moving across the UK, indicating minimal rainfall or snow. This contrasts with the wet conditions at the start of December, which caused flooding in parts of south Wales.
Shuttleworth noted that although temperatures won’t be exceptionally cold, a general decrease in temperatures can be expected. Despite temperatures exceeding 12C in various areas on Monday, a shift in wind direction will bring about cooler temperatures, particularly in western UK regions at the beginning of next week.
Last week, odds for a white Christmas dropped to evens at Aberdeen Airport and 6/4 at Edinburgh Airport. However, the latest information is anticipated to alter bookmakers’ odds today.
Historically, the UK witnesses snow on Christmas Day approximately once every four years, with Scotland experiencing a true “White Christmas” more frequently than other regions. Before the Christmas week, southern England and Wales are forecasted to receive more rain. The Met Office has issued a weather warning due to concerns about potential flooding, especially in areas that have already experienced heavy rainfall.
Numerous flood warnings are currently in effect, including alerts for the River Severn at Severn Ham, Tewkesbury in Gloucestershire, and the River Clyst from Broadclyst to Clyst St. Mary in Devon.