URGENT UPDATE: A significant Polar freeze is poised to sweep across the UK in the lead-up to Christmas, with predictions of snow and freezing temperatures, according to the Met Office. This weather system is expected to impact the UK from December 20 to January 2, bringing a mix of snow, fog, and frost to several regions.
Forecasts indicate temperatures could plummet as low as -6C in Aberdeenshire, while even areas as far south as the Welsh Valleys may experience chills of -2C. As the cold snap unfolds, it is likely to persist intermittently through the Christmas period, raising hopes for a white Christmas across various areas.
The Met Office warns that the upcoming days will be marked by “changeable” weather, with the potential for rain, strong winds, and hill snow, particularly in northern regions. The agency’s long-range forecast indicates that temperatures will gradually decrease, following a notably mild 11C registered earlier this week in Gosport, Hampshire.
Officials stress that while they cannot confirm specific conditions for Christmas Day yet, the odds for snow have significantly improved. Currently, William Hill offers even odds for snow in Aberdeen and 5/4 for a white Christmas in Edinburgh. Notably, Newcastle is seen as the English city most likely to see snowfall on December 25, with odds of 6/4.
The Met Office clarifies that to qualify as a “white Christmas,” a snowflake must be officially observed falling within the 24 hours of December 25.
“This is necessary to ensure accuracy in our climate records,”
an official statement reads.
Weather maps from Metdesk support the Met Office’s predictions, showing a gradual drop in temperatures as December progresses. Gusts of wind could reach up to 60mph along the coastline in North Wales and Devon, adding to the chill in the air.
As excitement builds, the public’s anticipation for a snowy holiday continues. Lee Phelps from William Hill remarked, “The UK public seem to dream for a white Christmas every year. In 2025, we give Aberdeen the best chance of seeing snow at evens.”
Stay tuned for further updates as this developing weather situation unfolds, and prepare for a potentially festive snowy season.
