The United Kingdom is on high alert as weather models predict a severe snowstorm capable of dumping up to 20 inches of snow on parts of the country by the end of next week. The impending blizzard is part of a wider weather system set to engulf much of Europe, with forecasters warning of potentially dangerous conditions and a deep freeze that could see temperatures plummet to -12C this weekend.
Snow Forecast Maps Paint a Stark Picture
According to the latest ECMWF weather model data, significant snowfall is expected to hit large swathes of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland on January 11. The maps indicate that by 6am on that day, the snow will have moved into the south-east of England, with heavy concentrations over London and Kent.
While the snow may fall at an intense rate of up to 4cm per hour in some areas, it is forecast to settle most persistently in the far east of England. This fresh snowfall will add to existing accumulations, leading to total depths approaching 50cm (19.6 inches) in the worst-affected regions. In Scotland, particularly on the west coast, some areas could see snow depths reach half a metre.
Official Warnings Issued as Cold Snap Intensifies
In response to the looming threat, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has escalated its warnings to an amber alert for the whole of England. The agency cautioned that the coming cold snap is likely to “cause significant impacts across health and social care services.”
Simultaneously, the Met Office has issued a series of new weather warnings for snow and ice, valid until Sunday. At least 79 locations across the UK are currently under snow warnings in the coming days. The national forecaster's outlook warns of a bitterly cold New Year period, with wintry showers expected across northern Scotland and extending down western coasts.
Europe Faces Widespread Disruption
This severe weather event is not confined to the UK. Large parts of continental Europe are also preparing for disruptive snowfall. Northern France and sections of Belgium could see accumulations rivaling those in Scotland, with up to 50cm of snow forecast. The most extreme conditions are predicted for the Norwegian coast, where areas near Stavanger might be buried under an astonishing six feet of snow during the same period.
Residents across the affected regions are being urged to prepare for travel disruption, potential power outages, and to check on vulnerable neighbours as the severe winter weather takes hold.
