New weather charts indicate the United Kingdom is preparing for a significant 48-hour snow event, with up to 25 counties across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland expected to be impacted. Forecasters warn that snowfall could blanket multiple towns and cities within the next two days, as a cold snap descends upon the region.
Widespread Snowfall Predictions
According to data from WXCharts, snow is set to arrive by Wednesday, March 25, with accumulation varying by location. Parts of Scotland could see up to 8 centimetres of snow, while Wales may receive around 6 centimetres. In England, cities are forecast to get approximately 3 centimetres, disrupting daily life and travel.
Major Cities in the Firing Line
Several larger urban centres are directly in the path of this weather system. Manchester, Liverpool, Blackpool, and Belfast are among the key cities anticipated to experience snowfall. The Met Office has issued warnings, stating that the UK will turn "markedly colder from Wednesday," with temperatures potentially dropping to as low as -5°C in rural Scotland overnight.
Regional Impacts and Weather Patterns
The most intense snowfall is predicted for higher ground areas, particularly hills in southern Powys, Wales, where up to 6 centimetres could accumulate by 9 a.m. on Wednesday. Meanwhile, the forecast includes a mix of sunny spells and blustery showers, with snow likely over northern hills. The Met Office emphasised that it will feel cold across all parts due to wind chill, and a widespread frost is expected overnight, with ice possible in northern regions on Thursday morning.
Extended Forecast and County List
Beyond the initial snow event, Thursday is expected to bring dry conditions with sunny spells for most areas, though cloud and rain may push into Northern Ireland and western parts later. Temperatures are forecast to return closer to average from Friday onwards, but further weather systems could affect the UK over the weekend, primarily impacting northern areas.
Full List of Counties Under Snow Alert
Here are the counties where snow is forecast between 3 a.m. on Wednesday, March 25, and 6 a.m. on Thursday, March 26, according to WXCharts:
- England: Cumberland, Westmorland and Furness, Lancashire, Greater Manchester, Cheshire West and Chester, Cheshire East, Staffordshire
- Wales: Flintshire, Denbighshire, Powys
- Scotland: Highland, Moray, Aberdeenshire, Angus, Stirling, Argyll and Brute, South Ayrshire, East Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, Dumfries and Galloway
- Northern Ireland: Causeway Coast and Glens, Mid and East Antrim, Mid Ulster, Derry City and Strabane, Fermanagh and Omagh
Residents in these areas are advised to stay updated with local weather warnings and prepare for potential travel disruptions and cold conditions.
