UPDATE: The Met Office has just announced that the chances of a white Christmas this year are “extremely low.” Forecasts reveal a trend toward drier conditions in the UK next week, with temperatures expected to gradually decline.
For a white Christmas to be officially declared, a single snowflake must fall anywhere in the UK within the 24 hours of December 25. Historically, since 1960, more than half of Christmas Days have recorded snow. However, the last significant event was in 2023, when only 11% of weather stations reported snow, and none indicated any snow accumulation.
Tom Morgan, an operational meteorologist at the Met Office, provided crucial insights into the upcoming weather. “We are confident that next week we’ll see a transition to much drier conditions,” Morgan stated. He explained that this shift is primarily due to high pressure dominating the region, moving away from the low-pressure systems that have caused the recent wet weather.
While there may still be some rain and scattered showers during the Christmas period, Morgan emphasized that temperatures are unlikely to drop sufficiently before December 25 to allow for snowfall. “There’s certainly not any significant signal for widespread snow or deep, settling snow whatsoever at all at this stage,” he added.
The implications of this forecast might be disappointing for those dreaming of picturesque snowy landscapes during the holiday season. “For the vast majority, the chance of any white Christmas as such is extremely low,” Morgan reiterated. “If you want any snow, it’s likely that you’re going to be disappointed.”
Travelers can expect a much smoother journey next week, with the Met Office not anticipating any warnings for disruptions. The weather is predicted to be relatively dry and often cloudy, with temperatures gradually falling, although not excessively cold.
Public weather forecasts for Christmas Day will be available starting December 19. As the holiday approaches, many will be watching closely to see if any last-minute changes occur in the weather patterns.
Stay tuned for further updates as we approach Christmas Day!
