A new round of snow is expected to impact the UK, with people bracing for extended blizzards lasting up to 21 hours. Advanced weather models indicate that snowfall will begin in Scotland on December 15, gradually moving southward to affect Northern Ireland, Wales, and parts of England. By 9am on that day, the heaviest snow is predicted to fall in southern Scotland, particularly in Galloway Forest Park, as well as in the Lake District and the Pennines in northern England. Lighter snow showers are also possible in Northern Ireland at that time.
Significant snowfall is forecasted to hit North Wales by 3pm on December 15, with Snowdonia expected to be particularly impacted. In addition, Ireland may see some snowfall, possibly in Dublin. Areas not experiencing snow should anticipate rain as the weather system moves across the UK, with central and northern England likely to face showers throughout the day.
Snow coverage maps for 9pm on December 15 illustrate the widespread snow accumulation from this Arctic blast, with snow covering the ground in North Wales, Northern Ireland, northern England, and most parts of Scotland after 21 hours of continuous snowfall.
Looking ahead, the BBC Weather predicts low confidence in the weather patterns from December 15 to 28, mentioning potential shifts in atmospheric disturbances and the uncertainty of their effects on weather conditions. The forecast suggests the possibility of high pressure becoming dominant near the UK and Ireland, leading to drier conditions before Christmas, with temperatures expected to be near or slightly above average.
The Met Office also indicates a chance of snow in some regions during the latter half of December. Their forecast for December 16 to 30 points to a higher likelihood of dry weather due to potential high-pressure systems, with possible spells of rain, showers, and hill snow, mainly in the north. Temperatures are anticipated to be around average, with occasional colder spells possible, especially if prolonged settled periods occur.
