Arctic Blast to Bring Snow and Ice Threat Across UK
Yellow Warning Issued for Northern Scotland
The high pressure that delivered last week’s mild, dry weather is on the move. It’s shifting south, making way for a chillier Arctic blast from the north. This will bring unsettled weather from late Tuesday through Wednesday, with icy conditions on the cards.
The Met Office has slapped a Yellow Warning for ice and snow over northern Scotland. Expect a few centimetres to settle on higher ground. Lower areas could see a wintry mix too, but any snow likely won’t stick around long on Wednesday.
Wintry Mix Hits Most of the UK
As the cold front creeps south late Wednesday, sleet and snow showers could hit much of the UK. Snowflakes might fall in places but won’t settle for long. Some northeast hills and spots further south might see a few centimetres of slushy snow, but it should melt quickly by Thursday morning.
Freezing Temperatures and Ongoing Unsettled Weather
Temperatures are set to plunge. In remote parts of northern Scotland, it could dip to a frosty -8°C Thursday night, with sub-zero chills possible overnight across much of the UK throughout the week.
The chilly wet weather will stick around through Thursday and Friday, with wintry showers and a gloomy weekend ahead. Temperatures should bounce back to near normal over the weekend into next week.
Experts Warn of Garden Risks
Met Office Chief Meteorologist Steve said, “Cold and unsettled weather is taking charge over much of the UK this week, as cold air is drawn in from the north and brings with it the risk of rain, sleet and snow.”
“Although there’s still some uncertainty on the exact positioning of snow showers, the trend is for a mix of sleet and snow to fall as a cold front moves from the north to the south from late on Tuesday through to Thursday morning. Some clear spells are still around later in the week, with the best of any sunshine likely to be in the south and west of the UK, albeit feeling cold compared to last week.”
Royal Horticultural Society’s Guy Barter added, “Colder weather will slow plant growth and inhibit plums and pears pollination as insects fly less in cold dull weather.”
“Limited rain will help new sowings of peas and carrots and newly planted lettuces but won’t greatly delay planting once conditions improve. Tender plants like petunias and tomatoes won’t be outdoors for another month at least, while lower light will slow greenhouse growth.”
