close
close

first Drop

Com TW NOw News 2024

A cold and wintery period is coming
news

A cold and wintery period is coming

There has been a big change in the weather since this weekend as an early winter cold snap arrives that could bring disruptions over the next week.

For starters, high pressure remains in control, bringing cloudy conditions for many with the possibility of fog overnight.

Tomorrow will be a similar day, but it will be windier in the north. These winds will strengthen in the north late Friday, bringing in colder Arctic air.

A band of rain will move south across most parts on Saturday, while conditions will turn colder in the north, with the possibility of some snow on the hills.

Cold for everyone from Sunday

Low pressure will set in on Sunday and we will see the start of some unsettled and much colder weather. Rebekah Hicks, Deputy Chief Meteorologist at the Met Office, explains: “A notable wave of winter cold will sweep across the north from Sunday, likely to reach all parts of Britain by mid-week.

“Temperatures will drop as a northerly airflow develops, bringing in colder Arctic air. This introduces the possibility of snow initially on high ground in the north from Sunday, with gusty winds also a potential hazard.”

At this stage there is a lot of uncertainty about what we might see next week, with computer models showing a number of different scenarios.

Rebekah said: “There is a lot of uncertainty about what could happen after Sunday, but there are a number of scenarios that could bring some more widespread rain, along with some snow on the hills and stronger winds. It is possible that there will be some more widespread snowfall on lower ground, but the chances of that are low for any given region at this stage. What we do know is that the whole of Britain is likely to experience a spell of several days of cold, potentially disruptive weather next week.

“Warnings for winter hazards, including snow and ice, are possible, so it is important to keep up to date with the latest weather forecasts.”

The full scope of the long-term forecast is explored in the Met Office 10-day trend video, available on YouTube and via the Met Office app.

The images below show the possible scenarios at this time.

Why is it so difficult to predict snow?

Predicting impactful snow in Britain is tricky, and there are a number of factors that meteorologists look out for. Read more about predicting snow in Britain.

Advice in cold weather

Thinking ahead and preparing for the colder conditions ahead can really make a difference.

Find out more about keeping your home warm and how cold weather can affect your health as part of the Met Office’s WeatherReady campaign.

As the north prepares to feel the cooler air first, Katherine Crawford, Chief Executive of Age Scotland, said: “There are simple steps we can all take to ensure no one feels like they are going through this period alone. Bad weather can make it difficult for people to go outside for essential shopping or medical appointments. That’s why we encourage everyone to check in with older family, friends and neighbors during this time to see if they need additional support.

“A friendly phone call or an offer to help with shopping, picking up prescriptions or de-icing paths can be a lifeline for someone feeling isolated at home during this cold spell.

“Older people, their carers and families in Scotland seeking help or advice can call Age Scotland’s free helpline on 0800 12 44 222.”

NHS 24 is Scotland’s provider of digital and telephone health and care services, including the 111 service and NHS inform. Dr. Siama Latif, Associate Medical Director of NHS 24 said: “As the weather turns colder it could have an impact on the health and wellbeing of everyone, but especially those who may be considered vulnerable such as the very young, the elderly or people with a long lifespan. long-term health problems.

“If you have to go out during a cold spell, make sure you dress warmly and wear shoes with good traction to prevent slips, trips or falls.

“Our digital services NHSinform.scot or the NHS 24 Online app provide excellent advice if you need tips on managing winter illnesses or if you are looking for help with sprains or strains. These resources are invaluable in ensuring you get the right advice and support, especially during the colder months.”

You can find the latest weather forecast on our website, on YouTube, by following us on X and Facebook, as well as on our mobile app available for iPhone in the App Store and for Android in the Google Play Store.