A number of regions in the United Kingdom are expected to face snowfall in the upcoming week, accompanied by plunging temperatures. The latest weather maps from the Met Office predict bouts of snow and hail in parts of northern Scotland late on Friday night and early Saturday morning. Additionally, there is a possibility of snow showers in Wales and northern England on Thursday, as indicated by WXCharts utilizing Metdesk data.
As the weekend approaches, the likelihood of snow increases, with more extensive coverage anticipated across Scotland, northern England, eastern coastal areas, and Wales. Northern Ireland may also witness snowfall on Sunday morning, with further flurries expected on Monday.
Although the Met Office does not foresee a prolonged cold spell, isolated wintry showers are always a potential occurrence towards the end of October, particularly in high-altitude regions of Scotland. Temperatures are projected to drop to around -1°C in northern Pennine areas like County Durham, Cumbria, and Northumberland from Thursday to Friday. In rural Scotland, temperatures could plummet to -7°C or -8°C, while rural parts of England may experience lows of -2°C or -3°C. Meteorologist Dan Stroud from the Met Office mentioned the likelihood of widespread frost and icy patches on Tuesday morning.
Areas of elevated terrain in northern England may also witness snow, although this is expected to be brief, according to Mr. Stroud. He emphasized that while wintry conditions are a risk over the weekend, such weather patterns are common for this time of year, with temperatures remaining within the seasonal average.
The Met Office’s extended forecast from October 25 to November 3 anticipates a shift to a colder northerly airflow, resulting in showery conditions along coastal regions and occasional bright spells inland. There may be wintry showers over high ground in the far north. Subsequently, weather conditions are likely to become more changeable with outbreaks of rain and stronger winds spreading from the Atlantic, although intermittent drier periods are expected. Rainfall is projected to be more prevalent in the north and west, with temperatures hovering around normal or slightly below average for this period.
The upcoming days will see morning fog dissipating gradually, followed by frequent showers across England and Wales, some of which could be heavy accompanied by hail and thunder. Northern Ireland and southern Scotland are expected to experience drier conditions, while rain will persist in northern Scotland. Winds are expected to be strong along the southern coast.
Showers will persist into the evening and overnight, mainly concentrating in western areas and possibly intensifying at times. Windy conditions are likely to persist along southern coastlines.
Tuesday is expected to bring a mix of sunny spells and blustery showers, with the north and west experiencing more frequent showers. Any sunny intervals are likely to provide a pleasant feel.
Wednesday is predicted to be drier for many regions before wet and windy weather develops on Thursday, persisting into Friday with rain giving way to heavy showers. Colder temperatures are anticipated by Friday, with continued windy conditions.