A new wave of snow is expected to hit the United Kingdom, bringing prolonged blizzards for up to 21 hours. According to advanced weather modeling maps, the snow will initially reach Scotland on the early morning of December 15 before moving southward to affect Northern Ireland, Wales, and parts of England.
The latest GFS model forecasts suggest that the heaviest snowfall will occur in southern Scotland, including Galloway Forest Park, as well as in the Lake District and the Pennines in northern England by 9am. Lighter snow is also possible in Northern Ireland during this period.
By 3pm on December 15, heavy snowfall is anticipated in North Wales, particularly impacting Snowdonia. Flurries are also expected in Dublin, Ireland. Regions not experiencing snowfall can anticipate rain as the weather system moves across the UK, with central and northern England likely to see some showers throughout the day.
Snow coverage maps for 9pm on December 15 illustrate the widespread snowfall from an Arctic blast, with snow accumulation in North Wales, Northern Ireland, northern England, and most parts of Scotland following 21 hours of continuous snow showers.
Looking ahead to December 15 to 28, the BBC Weather forecasts low confidence due to atmospheric disturbances. There is a possibility of high pressure dominating the UK and Ireland, leading to drier conditions before Christmas with near-normal temperatures but potential colder outbreaks later on.
The Met Office also indicates a chance of snow in some regions during the latter half of December, with spells of high pressure expected to bring drier weather compared to the earlier part of the month. Hill snow is a possibility mainly in the north, along with near-average temperatures, although colder spells may occur with prolonged settled weather patterns.