Britain is bracing for a turbulent start to November as dramatic new weather maps turn purple, signalling snow, torrential rain and gale-force winds sweeping across the country.
The latest WXCharts maps, based on Metdesk model data, show bands of rain and snow spreading from the northwest on Saturday, November 1, with areas of Scotland expected to see the first flakes of the season. Parts of the Highlands near Inverness and Aberdeen could see light accumulations, while colder air begins to push further south.
The charts also show deep Atlantic low-pressure systems closing in on the UK, with central pressure dropping to around 981 millibars, driving powerful gusts up to 64mph in exposed western regions.
Meteorologists warn this could bring a period of unsettled, stormy weather, with a “rain wall” stretching hundreds of miles across Britain.
The incoming Atlantic front is expected to bring a 700-mile wall of rain stretching from the west of Ireland across the UK to northern Europe.
WXCharts’ “purple zones” on the latest maps indicate intense precipitation, including potential snowfall over higher ground, as the Atlantic front clashes with cooler air over northern Britain.
Wales, Northern Ireland, and western Scotland are expected to see the heaviest rain, with several centimetres forecast in some areas.
The Met Office’s long-range forecast for Friday 31 October to Friday 14 November supports this outlook, suggesting the UK is set for a changeable and at times stormy period as low pressure systems track eastwards from the Atlantic.
It states: “A showery northwesterly regime should give way to a generally changeable and at times unsettled period as we move into early November, as low-pressure systems over the Atlantic track towards the UK.
Given this setup, the wettest conditions are most likely in the west, and strong winds could feature at times too.”
The forecasters add that there are “hints of a drier interlude” across southern areas towards mid-November, which could bring calmer conditions, although overnight fog may become more common as temperatures drop.
Experts warn that the UK’s first significant cold snap of the season could arrive during this unsettled phase, with the north and west bearing the brunt of the early wintry blast. Roads and rail services could face disruption if snow and strong winds combine.
While widespread snow is unlikely at lower levels just yet, forecasters are watching closely for signs that colder Arctic air could deepen later in the month, potentially paving the way for a chillier and more wintry November.
For now, Britons are advised to prepare for a wild start to the month, as autumn’s mild spell gives way to stormy skies, blustery winds, and the season’s first hints of snow.