The first significant snowfall of the winter is expected to hit over 20 regions next week as a surge of Arctic air sweeps across Britain. Gloucestershire could be among the areas affected, as shown on our interactive snow forecast map.
After this weekend’s heavy rain, the Met Office predicts a sharp shift in weather conditions with a “reasonable chance” of snow as frigid Arctic air engulfs the UK. High pressure will dominate the weekend weather, shifting south toward the Azores and drawing in icy northerly winds.
As this cold air moves southwards, temperatures are forecast to plunge well below normal, bringing winter-like conditions and the possibility of snow in several parts of the country. Early Monday morning (November 17) could see temperatures as low as -4°C in parts of Scotland.
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This cold snap is expected to spread across the UK throughout the week, with temperatures dropping several degrees below the seasonal average. Nighttime lows might reach -2°C in the North West of England by Tuesday, while central England and Scotland could experience widespread temperatures between 0°C and 2°C by Wednesday.
Alongside the falling temperatures, the likelihood of sleet and snow will increase, particularly over Scotland’s hills and mountains, Northern Ireland, northern England, and possibly North Wales.
By the end of the week, the Met Office warns that a “widespread wintry spell” could affect the UK, potentially even bringing snow to southern areas, including Gloucestershire.
Forecast data from OpenWeather suggests parts of Scotland and the North East could see snow as early as Monday, with snow spreading to Wales and Gloucestershire in the South West by Tuesday. Northern Ireland may also experience a light dusting by Wednesday.
The Met Office advises caution as snow increases throughout the period, especially after Friday’s rains in southern regions that could turn to wintry showers in northwest Wales' hills.
In a recent blog, the Met Office stated: “There is a growing chance of sleet and snow in northern Scotland by Sunday and Monday, with the risk expanding southwards into Northern Ireland, northern England, and North Wales by Tuesday.
Come mid to late next week, a weather system might push south, bringing a more extensive spell of wintry weather. Some forecasts even suggest a 20% or higher chance of snowfall exceeding 1cm in southern parts of the UK.
In addition to snow, icy conditions are also a concern, particularly where rain falls on already cold surfaces.”
Stay prepared for rapidly changing weather and check our interactive map to see if and when snow might fall near you.