Snowfall may occur during the Christmas week, as per the latest update from the Met Office. Initially, the national weather service had indicated a low probability of snow during the festive season. However, the recent forecast suggests that dropping temperatures could enhance the chances of experiencing a White Christmas.
The Met Office now mentions the potential for “wintry showers” in the eastern region of the UK next week, contrary to its previous assessment of a minimal likelihood of a widespread White Christmas. Tom Crabtree, Deputy Chief Forecaster at the Met Office, has expressed optimism for snow enthusiasts anticipating a snowy Thursday. He mentioned that high pressure is anticipated to establish next week, leading to drier and less mild conditions for Christmas. Although temperatures are expected to decrease, extreme cold conditions are less likely, with the possibility of overnight frosts and occasional mist and fog in some areas.
The most recent widespread White Christmas in the UK was observed in 2010, while the last official White Christmas, defined by the Met Office as at least one snowflake falling on December 25, happened in 2023. The upcoming week’s Met Office forecast indicates that Monday will bring intermittent rain, particularly in western regions, while the east will remain predominantly dry with occasional sunny spells.
Currently, a yellow weather warning for fog is active until 10 am in several regions including South East England, the East of England, the East Midlands, and South West England, encompassing London. Additionally, a yellow warning for rain is in effect in South West England and Wales until the end of the day.
Rebekah Hicks, Chief Forecaster at the Met Office, highlighted that low-pressure systems will introduce unsettled weather across the UK this week, with strong winds and heavy rain expected. Today’s weather includes periods of heavy rain, especially in the western highlands of Britain. Following recent wet conditions, travel disruptions and flooding are probable in parts of southwest England and south Wales. Furthermore, widespread windy conditions are anticipated, with coastal areas likely to experience gales throughout the day.