Britain is preparing for an impending heavy snowfall of up to eight inches as a massive snowstorm approaches. Around 18 cities are expected to be hit by snow this week as temperatures drop below freezing, with -6C forecasted in the northern regions. Weather models indicate that the storm is projected to hit the UK by 6pm on February 18.
Wales is anticipated to face the most severe weather conditions as the system strengthens, according to the ECMWF weather model. Cities such as Oxford, Birmingham, Nottingham, Sheffield, Leeds, and Cardiff are among those likely to experience snow by Thursday.
The snow is predicted to first appear in Oxford, Canterbury, and Swansea, with northern areas like Dundee, the Yorkshire Dales, and the Dumfries and Galloway region of Scotland also expecting some snowfall. Belfast could see snow as early as Wednesday evening.
By 9pm, heavy snowfall is expected across Wales and parts of the West Midlands, with Powys and Shropshire likely to receive the heaviest accumulations. Snow depths in the area could reach up to eight inches by the early morning hours, with areas in the south of Powys expecting around five inches of snow.
The West Midlands might see up to three and a half inches of snow, while the Yorkshire Dales could accumulate around three inches. Maps show that approximately 90% of Wales will be covered in snow.
Most of England and Wales are forecasted to remain dry by Thursday, especially in Scotland and the southeast regions including London, Essex, and Kent.
The Met Office has cautioned about an unsettled start to the week with rain and heavy winds expected in the northern areas. The forecaster mentioned that Tuesday could bring a drier, colder day for many before more rain returns from the southwest later.
As the week progresses, the UK is expected to experience unsettled weather conditions with rain, strong winds, and hill snow at times. Further weather warnings may be issued as conditions develop.
