The UK is set for another bout of disruptive winter weather this week, with forecasters predicting a spread of snow and powerful gales. While not expected to be as severe as the recent Storm Goretti, a new band of low pressure will bring a sharp drop in temperatures and blizzard conditions to several regions.
Snow and Gale Force Winds Forecast
According to the latest analysis, blizzards are predicted to reach as far south as Monmouthshire and Gloucestershire from Thursday night into Friday morning. A sudden temperature plunge on Thursday will trigger snowfall across south Wales, the Midlands, and parts of Northwest England.
Compounding the wintry conditions, gales of up to 60mph are forecast for Thursday evening. These strong winds will make it feel significantly colder, particularly along the west coast of Wales and the Lancashire coastline. This comes after a brief milder spell, which saw temperatures reach 12.9C in Bude, Cornwall.
Weather Maps Paint a Wintry Picture
Meteorological charts from sources like WXCharts illustrate the expected snowfall. The maps show a significant white area, indicating snow, covering Wales, Lancashire, Cumbria, and even parts of Northeast England. The Midlands is also expected to see snowfall on Friday morning.
The Met Office outlook states: "After a frosty start, Wednesday should be dry and bright but chilly. Wet and windy weather pushing northeastwards through Thursday, followed by blustery showers on Friday." Beyond Friday, the forecast remains changeable, with further Atlantic low-pressure systems likely to bring more rain and wind, especially in western areas.
Flooding Concerns Remain
Despite the incoming cold snap, flooding remains a concern in some areas following heavy rainfall. For instance, over 43mm of rain fell on Sunday in Tyndrum, Stirling. The Environment Agency has flagged several locations for monitoring, including the River Teme at Stanford Bridge in Worcestershire—an area also in the path of the forecast snow.
Other areas with high water levels include the River Severn at Severn Ham in Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, and the South Winterbourne Valley in Dorset. Residents are advised to stay updated with the latest weather warnings and flood alerts from official sources.
