The UK is set for a chilly and frosty festive period, with the Met Office forecasting a significant drop in temperatures during Christmas week. This comes after an unseasonably mild December, marking a sharp shift in conditions.
From Mild to Cold: A Christmas Week Weather Shift
The meteorological picture is changing rapidly. The week will begin with low pressure systems bringing rain across many parts of the country. However, high pressure is expected to build from mid-week, bringing drier but much colder air across the UK.
This shift will see temperatures plummet in time for Christmas Day itself. The Met Office predicts daytime temperatures will struggle to rise much above 3 degrees Celsius on 25 December. Overnight, the clear skies associated with the high pressure will bring a widespread risk of frost and patches of fog, which could linger into Christmas morning.
Snow Prospects Remain Low for Most
Despite the arrival of colder air, the forecast currently holds little promise for a traditional white Christmas for the vast majority of the UK. The Met Office states there are no strong signals for significant or widespread snowfall in the coming days.
Any wintry flurries that do develop are most likely to be confined to coastal areas, particularly along the far south coast of England. Even there, the chance of any substantial, settling snow is described as low. For those dreaming of a blanket of snow, the outlook suggests it will be a cold and crisp Christmas rather than a snowy one.
Cold Weather Alert for Vulnerable in London
The sharp drop in temperatures has prompted health warnings for those most at risk. The charity St Mungo's has issued an orange cold weather warning for homeless people in London. This level of alert indicates that conditions could pose a threat to health, and outreach services are being stepped up to provide support and emergency accommodation.
The combination of overnight frosts and daytime temperatures hovering just above freezing highlights the serious impact this weather can have on vulnerable individuals. The alert serves as a critical reminder of the dangers faced by those sleeping rough during the winter months.
In summary, Britons should prepare for a notably colder Christmas than recent weeks have suggested, wrapping up warm for any festivities outdoors. While widespread snow is unlikely, the risk of frost, fog, and icy patches will be high, making travel planning essential. The cold spell underscores the importance of community support, especially for those without secure shelter.
