Snow is set to hit the UK in the coming weeks as weather maps show an Arctic blast is on the way. Long-range weather maps have forecasted snowfall between February 21 and March 1 as large swathes of the UK are expected to be impacted.
According to the maps, Wales, northern England and western Scotland will be hit with snowfall first – with up to 11cm expected just north of Birmingham.
It is too early for the Met Office to issue any weather warnings but it does acknowledge temperatures will largely become colder by the end of the month and there will be “the potential for snow” in places.
Its long range weather forecaster says: “During late February and early March, there is a higher than normal likelihood of northerly or easterly winds dominating, which would increase the chance of colder and drier than average conditions. Spells of milder and wetter weather are still likely to occur at times, especially in the south and southwest, with the potential for snow on the boundary between milder and colder air.”
Wind is also expected to pick up as temperatures drop, with February 22 seeing cold gusts dropping to just 8C.
Manchester and Newcastle are amongst those worst hit, while most of Wales will be blanketed in snow. From February 25, snow is expected to clear slightly but Manchester could see up to 8cm.
Parts of western Scotland could see 16cm. Other long range maps suggest most of the UK will face snow from February 22, including London.
Other forecasters, such as those with Netweather, believe the next wintry vortex will grip us later than this month – and into March.
This would be into the spring, according to the meteorological calendar, but snow isn’t unheard of in March in the UK. In March 2018, some parts of the country saw 20 inches of snow when Storm Emma struck.
That year, Devon was among the worst-hit areas of Britain. However, further snow fall in 2024 is so far predicted for parts further north. Forecasters stress they continue to observe the atmospheric analysis and the picture changes rapidly.
A spokesperson for the Met Office told Express.co.uk: “It’ll gradually get milder from the south this week, with periods of heavy rain for some. There’s a chance of a northerly airflow bringing cooler conditions at times later in February, but it’s too early to determine details.”
Today:
Generally cloudy with spells of rain throughout, heaviest and most persistent in the west. Areas in southeast England seeing bright, even sunny spells. Feeling very mild away from the north, especially in brighter periods.
Tonight:
Rain moving eastwards with variable cloud and scattered showers behind, heavy near western coasts. Few fog patches forming in clear spells in the west and north. Mild for February.
Friday:
Rain to start in the southeast but clearing eastwards. Brighter weather developing but remaining mostly cloudy with scattered showers by midday. Staying mild within some light winds.
Outlook for Saturday to Monday:
Rain in the west on Saturday moving eastwards through the day. Drier and brighter for Sunday with some showers in the west. Remaining mild for the time of year.
