The UK is bracing for another cold snap as the Met Office issues warnings of snow and ice in the coming days. A high-pressure system is set to bring cold conditions across the country this weekend, with temperatures expected to drop below average by the end of the week. While England and Wales will experience mostly dry conditions with scattered sunny spells, Northern Ireland and Scotland are likely to face more unsettled weather, including coastal gales and rain.
What to Expect in the Coming Days
As the weekend approaches, temperatures are predicted to plummet, leading to potential wintry hazards such as snow and ice. Frank Saunders, the chief meteorologist at the Met Office, cautioned that despite a pleasant week ahead, a dip in temperatures is on the horizon. The arrival of high-pressure systems will bring easterly winds, low temperatures, and an increased risk of wintry conditions. It is advisable to stay updated on the forecast in your area as the situation evolves.
Areas of high pressure typically bring dry and settled weather, with the possibility of stratocumulus clouds causing prolonged periods without sunshine and suppressing daytime temperatures. Clear skies associated with high-pressure systems can lead to cold nights, frost, and fog. In this instance, the center of the high-pressure system is expected to be positioned over Scandinavia, with easterly winds carrying cold air from the continent into the UK.
Record-Breaking Sunshine in January
Despite the impending cold snap, the UK recently experienced its fifth sunniest January on record, according to the Met Office. January 2025 logged an average of 61.8 hours of sunshine across the country, making it the fifth sunniest January in history. Notably, three of the top five sunniest Januarys have occurred in the past four years, with 2022 and 2023 ranking just ahead of this year. The sunniest January on record remains 1959, with 69.7 hours of sunshine, followed by 2001 with 66.5 hours.
Met Office scientist Emily Carlisle explained that while Storm Eowyn brought impactful wet and windy weather, the UK also experienced unusually bright days due to frequent high-pressure systems. Clear skies allowed for ample sunshine, but the lack of cloud cover resulted in below-average temperatures. This combination led to January 2025 being one of the sunniest on record, showcasing the diverse weather patterns the UK has experienced in recent months.
As the UK prepares for another bout of wintry weather, it is essential to stay informed about the changing conditions and be prepared for potential snow and ice. Keeping abreast of the latest forecasts and heeding the advice of meteorologists can help mitigate the impact of the upcoming cold snap. Stay safe and stay warm as winter tightens its grip on the country.