Forecasters anticipate a significant drop in temperature, with temperatures staying closer to freezing during the day and falling below freezing overnight, with a yellow weather warning for snow midweek.
In the following week, an Arctic blast promises to further reduce temperatures across the United Kingdom.
Following the chill produced by a northeasterly breeze over the past few days, forecasts predict that it will become considerably colder beginning Wednesday, remaining closer to freezing during the day and falling below nighttime.
It increases the likelihood of snow in the North, especially over the Scottish mountains, where temperatures will remain below normal.
Midweek, a yellow weather warning is in effect for the far north, where snowfall of up to 10 centimeters (4 inches) is expected to cause traffic disruptions.
The threat of drifting and blizzard conditions is also posed by strong northerly winds.
While bright or sunny periods are most likely in the West, it is possible that this could result in frosty nights.
Kirsty McCabe stated: “It is the first significant cold period of the winter, and next week the winds will shift to become more northerly, making it considerably colder.
“This will inject Arctic-sourced air that is considerably cooler.
“In addition to making it feel considerably colder, arctic air is beautiful and clean, and it offers brilliant winter sunshine with excellent visibility.
“However, it also means chilly nights and an increase in the likelihood of sleet and snow in any precipitation.
“The Met Office has already issued a yellow snow warning for portions of northern Scotland and the Northern Isles on Wednesday, in anticipation of snow showers that might impede transport.
“Snowfall accumulations of 2 to 5cm (0.7 to 2in) are probable at lower elevations, while accumulations of 5 to 10cm (2 to 4in) are possible above 200m.
Strong northerly winds will increase the likelihood of drifting snow and blizzard conditions.
Although it’s still early, the likelihood of a snowy Christmas appears to be diminishing, with signs of milder, wetter weather moving in around the middle of the month and increasing temperatures.
Forecasters forecast that the North and East will experience the longest duration of chilly temperatures.
Any transition between cold and warm weather carries a chance of precipitation, with sleet and snow particularly prevalent over the hills.
Uncertainty exists as to whether the cold snap will end this year, with the autumn being the mildest on record dating back to 1884.
The autumn of 2022 – September, October, and November – was the third warmest on record for the United Kingdom, with an average temperature of 11.1, surpassed only by 2011 and 2006.
November has extended 2022’s streak of warmer-than-average months, and the first eleven months of this year are the warmest on record for the United Kingdom.
Rainfall for the season was also far above average in several regions, notably southern England, a large portion of which was classified as drought-stricken by the end of July.
