The UK is bracing for a 21-hour snowstorm, with weather maps predicting the first flakes to fall in Scotland in the early hours of December 15. The snow is then expected to shift southwards, affecting Northern Ireland, Wales, and parts of northern England.
By 9am, the heaviest snowfall is forecast in southern Scotland's Galloway Forest Park, the Lake District, and the Pennines. A lighter dusting is expected in Northern Ireland, while North Wales' Snowdonia could see heavy snow by 3pm. Dublin may also get a sprinkling.
Central and northern England are likely to experience rainfall instead of snow. By 9pm on December 15, after 21 hours of snow, accumulations are expected in North Wales, Northern Ireland, northern England, and nearly all of Scotland.
BBC Weather's outlook for December 15-28 notes low confidence due to upper atmosphere disturbances. High pressure could bring drier conditions before Christmas, with temperatures near or slightly above normal, but frost and fog possible. There is a risk of colder outbreaks later if high pressure builds at higher latitudes.
The Met Office's forecast for December 16-30 indicates a greater chance of high pressure, bringing dry weather, but also spells of rain, showers, and strong winds, especially in the west. Hill snow is possible in the north, with near or slightly above average temperatures most likely.
