Weather maps and charts from WX Charts, which uses Met Desk data, shows parts of the UK are bracing for temperatures well below freezing.
UK snow bomb to be worse than expected with -6C temperatures set to hit
The UK snow bomb is set to be colder than expected – with -6C now likely. Weather maps and charts from WX Charts, which uses Met Desk data, shows parts of the UK are bracing for temperatures well below freezing.
The projections, based on the GFS model, show areas in Scotland reaching as low as -6C around Wednesday, December 17. Snow has been widely expected in December ahead of Christmas, but sub-zero conditions are likely to be widespread.
Indeed, the maps – which uses advanced modelling – shows the mercury will plunge across parts of northern England. Typically, conditions are around 0C – making the -6C Arctic blast much colder than expected.
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In the north, Cumbria, Lancashire, Durham and Northumberland will be worst-hit by the teeth-chattering and freezing conditions.
Scotland, meanwhile, could face snow, with a heavy blanket settling over the Highlands.
The BBC Weather team says Monday 15 to Sunday 28 December will bring “a chance of drier periods later.”
it says: “The second half of December is very uncertain, not only because it is three to four weeks away but also due to a current upheaval in the upper atmosphere.
“This might influence weather patterns around the northern hemisphere later this month, but the manner of any impacts is hard to gauge at this range.
“The unsettled, mild and occasionally windy weather is most likely to continue for a while but there is a tentative possibility that we might see high pressure becoming more prevalent later somewhere across Europe, and possibly affecting the UK and Ireland.
“This would lead to more infrequent precipitation, so conditions could become drier and calmer by or after Christmas.
“High pressure position and alignment will affect what happens to temperatures, but there would at least be a chance of some chillier days with more frequent frosty nights.
“However, there is a lot that needs to be resolved between now and then.”
It adds: “In Friday’s update we will see if the longer-range models come into some sort of agreement on expectations towards Christmas, and we will be able to take a first look towards the New Year.”
