A severe Arctic cold front with temperatures dropping as low as -7C is expected to sweep across the UK, covering a large portion of the country in snow. Recent unsettled weather patterns bringing rain are set to persist through the week, with relatively mild temperatures. However, a significant shift is anticipated over the weekend and into the latter part of November as a high-pressure system ushers in frigid Arctic winds.
According to WXCharts, the upcoming wintry conditions will bring near or sub-zero temperatures early next week, plunging to -7C in Scotland, -3C in northern England, and -2C in the southern regions. Forecasts indicate the likelihood of up to 25cm of snowfall in the most affected areas within a 10-day period starting from November 19, as cold air from the Arctic combines with moisture from the Atlantic.
A map outlining the regions expecting snow on November 19 highlights 62 counties, with only parts of southwest England and south Wales seemingly escaping the wintry conditions. The Met Office forecasts cooler temperatures and overnight frosts for most parts of the UK over the weekend, with clearer skies and drier weather expected, except for some lingering cloud cover and mild conditions in the south and southwest, with chances of rain before clearing.
Looking ahead to the period of November 15-24, the Met Office predicts a continuation of colder weather, particularly in central and northern areas, with potential frosty nights and a possibility of wintry showers on higher ground. While southern and southwestern regions may initially experience milder and wetter conditions, there is uncertainty about how quickly this weather pattern will shift. Towards the end of the period, more changeable conditions are anticipated, with potential rain or showers in some areas, and the likelihood of hill snow in the north, as temperatures return to near-average levels.
