Following Storm Goretti, another round of snow is expected to hit the UK as prolonged blizzards are anticipated later this month, lasting for up to three days.
Storm Goretti caused widespread disruption throughout the UK, with the Met Office issuing alerts for snow, ice, wind, and rain. A rare red wind warning was issued for the south-west, where a tragic incident occurred as a man lost his life due to a fallen tree on a caravan.
Recent weather models indicate that more snowfall is on the horizon post this weekend, with initial snow showers affecting parts of northern England and Scotland on January 18. The ECMWF model forecasts a significant weather system moving in from the Atlantic by 6am, bringing heavy rain to various low-lying areas across the nation.
Further snowfall is expected on January 19, with various regions including the south-west of England, Wales, the Pennines, the Yorkshire Dales, and western Scotland likely to experience snow showers. The data suggests that snowfall rates could reach up to four inches per hour in certain parts of Scotland.
The weather maps indicate even more snowfall on January 20, particularly affecting the Midlands and northern England around 6am. Cities like Manchester, Liverpool, and Stoke-on-Trent may witness snowfall with flurries of up to one inch per hour.
Snow depth projections for midday on January 20 suggest that parts of northern Scotland could see up to 40cm (16 inches) of snow accumulation. Wales could experience as much as 7cm (three inches) of snow, while northern England might see around 6cm (two inches).
BBC Weather forecasts also hint at the possibility of more snow later this month. The outlook for the upcoming week indicates a likelihood of heavy rain and strong winds, with snow primarily expected in northern Scotland over higher terrain.
The Met Office has issued an amber snow warning today, effective from 3am until 2pm tomorrow in the Highlands, along with three additional rain warnings for this weekend in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Met Office Chief Forecaster Rebekah Hicks mentioned that a disruptive weather pattern is expected on Sunday as the UK transitions into a milder air mass, bringing an end to the prevailing cold snap since the start of the year.
Hicks added, “Low pressure from the west will introduce milder air, leading to significant snow accumulations in the already affected regions of Scotland. The Highlands could see an additional 20-30cm of snow, accompanied by strong winds, making Sunday a day of impactful weather.”
The transition from snow to rain during the day may introduce freezing rain temporarily, creating hazardous icy conditions. As temperatures rise, heavy rain and snowmelt pose a risk of flooding in some areas. With multiple severe weather warnings in place, staying informed with the latest forecast and guidance from local authorities is crucial.