Weather maps predict exact date UK could see 30 hours of snow

Weather forecasting maps show an ‘Arctic air mass’ bringing snow to the UK in mid-December

• The UK faces an expected 30-hour stretch of snowy weather set to arrive during mid-December.
• Weather maps show the snow originating over the Atlantic, with activity starting on December 11 and sweeping gradually eastward. This will bring a cold, snowy barrage across large areas of Scotland and northern England.
• Snow is forecast to begin around 6 am on December 11 in northern Scotland, affecting the Highlands and cities like Glasgow and Kilmarnock. The snowfall will largely be confined to Scotland throughout the day before moving south in the late evening.
• Millions may wake up to snow on the morning of December 12, with outbreaks likely on the Isle of Man, the Scottish west coast, and Newcastle. The concentration of snow will increase as it spreads south, potentially hitting major cities such as Manchester and Leeds by noon.
• Snowfall rates could reach two inches per hour in some high-ground areas, particularly over the Yorkshire Dales and the Peak District. Temperatures nationwide are expected to be chilly, with midday highs typically ranging between 1C and 2C.
• Southern England and Wales are likely to remain relatively dry during this period, with the heaviest snow and light rain expected further north. The snow event is being driven by an Arctic air mass making its way down south.
• The Met Office’s long-range outlook for December 7-16 suggests that generally unsettled conditions with rain and strong winds will continue. The official forecast also included a caution about the difficulty of predicting snow accurately so far ahead.
• Read more: London Christmas Day weather first verdict