Two significant snowstorms are poised to affect the UK, potentially dumping up to 19 inches of snow across the country, with around 90% of the nation expected to feel the impact.
According to advanced weather forecasting models, the first blizzard is anticipated to hit on January 29, starting in Northern Ireland, Wales, western Scotland, and the southwest of England before progressing eastward. By 9 am, snowfall is predicted to extend to northern England, the Midlands, and the southeast, with cities like London, Southampton, Birmingham, Manchester, and Liverpool likely to experience snow showers along with parts of Northern Ireland and Scotland.
The second blizzard is forecasted for January 30, with the GFS weather model indicating heavy snowfall in the southwest, Wales, the northwest, and sections of Scotland around 9 pm. This storm is expected to move eastward overnight into January 31, potentially bringing more snow to Yorkshire, the Midlands, and southern England by 6 am.
Maps illustrating snow coverage reveal that approximately 90% of the UK could be blanketed in snow by January 31, with only regions in the southwest, parts of Wales, and Northern Ireland possibly escaping the snowfall.
Snow depth projections suggest that the Scottish Highlands could see up to 19 inches (48cm) of snow accumulation, while northern and central England might receive around 5 inches (12cm), North Wales up to 6 inches (15cm), and parts of southern England possibly getting 3 inches (7cm).
Additionally, the Met Office suggests the likelihood of more snowfall towards the end of January and the start of February, with the national weather agency’s forecast indicating a potential for wintry conditions persisting, especially in Scotland and northern England.
Looking ahead, the Met Office warns of possible wintry hazards in February, with the weather pattern likely to bring wetter conditions to central and southern areas, while drier weather is expected in the north and northwest of the UK.