Advanced weather forecasting maps predict a major blizzard will sweep across the UK next week, bringing heavy snow and torrential rain to major cities including London and Birmingham. The GFS weather model indicates the wintry front will hit on Sunday, January 18, affecting millions across southern England, the Midlands, and Wales just days after Storm Goretti caused widespread destruction.
The forecasts show Wales will experience intense snow in the early hours, with London and Essex expecting snow around 3am. Most of southern England and significant portions of the Midlands, including parts of Birmingham, could see snow settled on the ground. Central and northern Scotland will also experience snow coverage, with Glasgow and Edinburgh set to see flurries.
WXCharts data suggests the wintry weather system will move rapidly eastward across the country. Heavy rain showers will hit East Anglia and the south-east around 3am on Sunday.
Weather agency forecasts
BBC Weather anticipates unsettled conditions but notes temperatures will remain near or above the January average. The agency stated: "The rest of the week should remain unsettled with temperatures near or above the January average, so lying snow should quickly thaw. There are hints of a potent low pressure system approaching late in the week, so some heavy rain and strong winds look possible, with snow most likely just over higher ground in northern Scotland."
The Met Office forecast for January 15 to 24 predicts: "Changeable and occasionally unsettled conditions are expected across the UK during this period. Low pressure systems moving in from the Atlantic will tend to dominate, meaning showers or longer spells of rain for much of the UK. Some heavy rain or showers are likely at times, most often across high ground in the west where rainfall totals will probably be highest. Periods of strong wind or gales are possible, especially around coasts and if any deep areas of low pressure develop in the vicinity of the UK. [...]"
Storm Goretti aftermath
The forecasted blizzard follows Storm Goretti, which brought record-breaking 99mph winds and resulted in a tragic death in Cornwall. Emergency services remain on alert following the previous storm's impact.
Local authorities across the Midlands and the South are being urged to maintain grit supplies and emergency readiness. The ongoing hazards include black ice and freezing rain on untreated roads.
Note: This article was created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
