A forecast from the Met Office indicates that London may experience additional wintry weather, including sleet or snow, later this week. This comes after snowfall was documented in the city yesterday, January 6.
Snow commenced falling shortly after 12 PM on Tuesday, creating picturesque scenes that attracted the attention of passers-by keen to capture the moment through photos and videos. Although the snow has since melted, forecasters caution that the cold weather is not yet over, hinting at the possibility of more wintry conditions as the week unfolds.
Weather Warnings and Temperature Trends
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for ice, effective until 10 AM this morning, January 7. The warning suggests that icy patches could form overnight from Tuesday into Wednesday, potentially leading to some disruptions.
Despite the chill, temperatures are predicted to rise slightly today, reaching approximately 6°C this afternoon, representing a noticeable increase from the earlier freezing temperatures. Nevertheless, the Met Office warns that sleet—and potentially snow—may return as a significant low-pressure system approaches starting Thursday.
Upcoming Weather Developments
Forecasts predict cloudy conditions accompanied by light rain or sleet on Thursday morning, with heavier rainfall expected in the afternoon. Enhanced winds are also anticipated, leading to coastal gales later in the day.
According to forecasters, “The current cold snap continues, before a deep area of low pressure threatens to bring further snow, strong winds, and heavy rain to southern parts of the UK from Thursday night.” The low has been named Storm Goretti by Meteo France, as its most severe wind impacts are anticipated to be felt across northern France.
Weekend and Long-Range Outlook
Looking ahead, Friday may begin with heavy rain, sleet, and snow, but conditions are expected to gradually improve from the west later in the day. Saturday is forecast to be cool yet predominantly dry, with temperatures around 3°C, while rain may return on Sunday, initially bringing wintry conditions as the system approaches from the west.
The Met Office’s extended forecast suggests that milder air could sweep in starting Sunday, decreasing the likelihood of further snow in London. However, experts do note the potential for colder conditions to resurface later in January.
Day-by-Day Forecast for London
- Wednesday, January 7: Yellow warning for ice, light winds, max temperature of 6°C.
- Thursday, January 8: Heavy wind and rain, chance of snow, max temperature of 5°C.
- Friday, January 9: Prolonged heavy rainfall, max temperature of 5°C.
- Saturday, January 10: Crisp and dry with gentle breezes, max temperature of 4°C.
- Sunday, January 11: Dry start with afternoon light showers, max temperature of 5°C.
- Monday, January 12: Dry day with warmer conditions, max temperature of 8°C.
- Tuesday, January 13: Continued warmer conditions with a chance of afternoon rain, max temperature of 8°C.
