Met Office gives verdict on reports UK to be hit by -16C freeze and snow

The Met Office has responded to claims of a possible freeze with temperatures dropping to -16C and extensive snowfall throughout the UK.

The national weather agency has recognized that there is a chance of snow starting this weekend, with the first impacts likely to be seen in elevated areas of the northern parts of the country as cold Arctic air begins to move downwards.

Although different weather forecasts have indicated that the UK may experience heavy snowfall from November 20-23, the Met Office offers a more cautious prediction. They acknowledge that winter weather is on the way, but they believe the likelihood of major snow causing issues in urban areas is minimal.

The agency's most recent extended forecast suggests that there will be regular snow showers, especially in the northern parts and along coastal areas that are vulnerable to strong northwesterly winds.

Although there may be some cold weather ahead, the Met Office has dismissed claims that temperatures could fall to minus 16 degrees.

Mark Sidaway, the Deputy Chief Meteorologist at the Met Office, explained that the high-pressure system that has been causing mostly dry conditions throughout the week will start to move back into the Atlantic as we approach the weekend.

"Along with the possibility of heavy rain on Sunday, temperatures are expected to fall, particularly in Scotland. This drop is due to a northerly wind that will bring in colder Arctic air to certain regions in the north," he described.

Sidaway mentioned, "This change opens the door to snow, starting with the higher elevations in the north on Sunday, and strong winds may also pose a risk."

He also cautioned that there may be alerts for winter-related dangers later in the weekend and encouraged everyone to keep an eye on the most recent updates on the forecast.

The forecast predicts a decrease in temperatures.

A representative from the Met Office informed GB News: "Right now, there's a possibility that some areas might experience winter weather next week, including snow, sleet, and some wind. However, this isn't as certain as some news headlines might suggest."

Next week, temperatures are predicted to dip below the usual levels for this time of year. However, daytime highs should stay above freezing for the majority of people. Some overnight lows might drop below freezing, but they won’t be as extreme as -16°C.

As we look ahead to November 23, there are signs that temperatures could bounce back to above normal levels at various times, particularly in the central and southern regions.

"Nevertheless, this is still quite far off, and there remains a great deal of uncertainty surrounding the predictions for that period."

The Met Office forecasts a notable decrease in temperatures throughout the UK, with certain regions possibly experiencing a drop to -1°C by November 20.

The Met Office's extended weather forecast for November 18-27 suggests that snowfall is expected at lower elevations, especially in the northern areas.

Several inland regions could face dry weather and extended periods of sunshine, particularly in areas that are protected from the northwesterly winds.

The agency is cautioning that temperatures will drop everywhere, with frost expected overnight. Additionally, strong winds will make it feel even colder. However, there are signs that temperatures might warmer later on as winds shift to a more westerly direction.