Summary
You know how when you bung a soda into the freezer to chill quickly and then totally forget about it until it’s a slushy mess? That’s kind of what’s happening in the UK right now! They’re about to get a five-day snow extravaganza, a bit like a Christmas pudding – wet and blustery up north, drier and calmer down south. It’s all thanks to a Polar or Arctic blast; a bit like someone left the fridge door open and now it’s going to hit sub-zero temperatures of -3C. So, if you’re planning to travel or live there, it might be worth packing some extra layers and bracing yourself for possible travel disruptions or increased heating needs.
Key Points
– The UK is set to experience five days of snow before New Year’s Eve, with possible temperatures dipping to -3C due to an expected Polar or Arctic blast.
– The Met Office’s late December forecast shows varying weather conditions with wet and windy weather alternating with drier and brighter periods.
– The north, particularly the northwest, is likely to experience the heaviest rainfall and strongest winds, while the south will likely be drier due to the influence of high pressure.
– Snowfall will likely be limited and accumulate mainly on higher ground or at elevated levels, with some snowfall expected from December 31 to January 14.
– Most of the time, temperatures will be above average, but colder spells are possible.
Background
The UK’s weather is notoriously unpredictable due to its geographical location between the Atlantic Ocean and the continental landmass of Europe. This position leads to frequent changes in weather patterns as warm and cold air masses clash, making it possible for extreme weather events such as the predicted Arctic blast and snowfall.
Future Implications
The forecasted weather could disrupt travel plans, especially during the holiday season, possibly causing delays or cancellations for those travelling by road or air. There may also be an increased demand for heating due to the drop in temperatures, impacting energy consumption. Additionally, preparation for potential power outages or disruptions to services due to severe weather conditions is advised.
