“Bitterly cold Arctic air” forecasted by the Met Office to bring 10cm of snow and ice
The UK is bracing for a blast of cold Arctic air as the Met Office warns of potential snow and ice accumulation of up to 10cm. Last week saw a sharp drop in temperatures, and a new weather map now indicates the looming possibility of an Arctic chill sweeping across the nation in the coming days.
As per the forecast from WX Charts, a significant cooldown is anticipated for the upcoming week, with most areas expecting temperatures between zero and 5 degrees Celsius. However, a purple splodge on the map signals even colder conditions creeping in from the northwest. Britons have recently endured a notably cold spell, followed by the disruptive impact of Storm Bert, which unleashed floods, heavy rainfall, and sadly claimed the lives of five individuals.
According to data sourced from MetDesk via WXCharts, the prevailing cold weather is set to persist, with forecasts for December 4 hinting at continued low temperatures. The projections for December 6 further suggest freezing conditions post-midnight, particularly severe in Wales, northern England, and Scotland. Met Office’s Chief Meteorologist, Neil Armstrong, cautioned that with the current Arctic air mass firmly entrenched over the UK, winter hazards are expected throughout the week, with potential updates on weather warnings in the days ahead.
Armstrong highlighted the imminent risk of snow showers later on Tuesday into Wednesday, predominantly in the north and east of the country, with snowfall also likely in parts of Northern Ireland and Wales. In areas under the warning, more than 10cm of snow could accumulate on higher ground, with lower levels possibly seeing 1-2cm settling, leading to potential travel disruptions. Additionally, the forecast warns of icy conditions developing rapidly on untreated surfaces alongside the snow and cold temperatures.
Looking ahead, the Met Office’s extended forecast covering December 4 to December 18 indicates a chilly lead-up to Christmas. While the beginning of this period is expected to be relatively settled with high pressure prevailing, there’s a possibility of more variable weather patterns with occasional Atlantic systems bringing wetter and windier spells, potentially resulting in snowfall, especially over northern hills. Temperature-wise, the forecast suggests readings close to average during this period, with a mix of calm and unsettled weather conditions anticipated.
Despite the prevailing cold, particularly during clear nights, the Met Office has not indicated any widespread or severe cold snaps in the near future. The guidance advises people to be prepared for a mix of weather patterns, with those in northern regions, especially at higher altitudes, advised to be cautious due to the likelihood of snow and difficult travel conditions.
In conclusion, as the UK braces for the impact of the impending Arctic air mass, preparations are underway for potentially disruptive snow and icy conditions in the days ahead. Stay tuned for further updates and warnings from the Met Office as the chilly spell grips the nation.