Temperatures in the UK experienced a significant rise this week, surpassing 19C in some areas. However, there are indications from advanced weather forecasting models that snow and wintry conditions are on the horizon for millions of Brits later in March, following the warm start to the month.
The ECMWF weather model suggests that on March 13, snowfall is expected in western, central, and eastern parts of Scotland, with Wales and Northern Ireland also likely to be affected. In certain areas of Wales, snow could fall at a rapid rate of approximately four inches per hour.
From March 14 to 16, the focus of snowfall is predicted to be mainly in Scotland, with significant accumulations anticipated on March 15, including cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh.
Moving into March 17, scattered snow showers are expected across various parts of the UK, particularly in northern regions of England and South Wales, with Swansea potentially experiencing flurries around midday.
The forecast for March 18 shows a likelihood of snow in Devon and Hampshire in southern England, as well as possible heavy snowfall in Northern Ireland later in the day.
By March 19, small pockets of snow are forecasted in western Scotland, Wales, and England, followed by widespread snow over most of Scotland and northern England on March 20. Manchester might see snow in the early hours, with lighter flurries expected in Scotland on March 21.
Throughout this period of snowfall, temperatures are expected to drop below freezing, with Scotland potentially reaching -3C, Northern Ireland and northern parts of England dropping to -1C, and Wales hovering around 0C.
The Met Office has warned of wintry hazards later in March, but does not anticipate extremely cold conditions. Looking ahead to March 20 to April 3, the forecast suggests unsettled weather initially, with a possibility of below-average temperatures towards the end of March.
BBC Weather’s outlook for March 16 to 29 indicates a continuation of unsettled conditions, with potential rainfall across the UK and a slight decrease in temperatures. There is also a chance of colder air moving southwards by early April, although this remains uncertain.
Overall, the weather patterns are expected to bring a mix of wintry conditions and milder temperatures in the coming weeks, with fluctuations in precipitation levels across different regions of the UK.
