The UK is experiencing an icy blast due to a ‘Scandinavian high’ weather system, sending temperatures plunging and bringing snow to parts of the country.
Many are wondering when warmer weather will return in 2025, as temperatures dropped to as low as -6°C on Sunday night. Snow has already fallen across Northumberland and County Durham, with forecasts suggesting more could be on the way before winter ends.
The Met Office predicts a week of cold and damp conditions, with brisk easterly winds making it feel even chillier. Rain and sleet are expected throughout the day, and snow is likely over higher ground. While midweek may bring drier conditions, temperatures are expected to remain around 2°C lower than the average for February.
What is a ‘Scandinavian high’?
A ‘Scandinavian high’ refers to a large area of high pressure forming over Scandinavia, which influences the UK’s weather by pulling in cold easterly winds.
Meteorologist Jonathan Vautrey explained to Sky News:
‘This weather system continues to feed easterly winds across the UK, drawing moisture from the North Sea and bringing widespread cloud.
‘This will result in rain and drizzle, with snow expected over higher ground – the Pennines could see several centimetres accumulating.
‘Some western areas, particularly northwestern Scotland, may see some sunshine, making for a slightly more pleasant day. However, for most of the UK, temperatures will struggle to exceed 5°C or 6°C.
‘When factoring in the wind chill, it will feel much colder, closer to freezing for most people, especially along the exposed eastern coast.’
Where is snow expected?
Snow has already fallen in parts of Northumberland, County Durham, and Exmoor. The latest Met Office forecast indicates that:
Tuesday will be another cold and overcast day, with rain and hill snow in the north and east. Some brighter spells may develop in northwest England and western Scotland, though it will remain breezy.
Wednesday will bring similar conditions, with patchy rain and hill snow continuing in the northeast. The west may see some brighter intervals, but the chilly easterly breeze will persist.
While the week ahead looks cold and unsettled, many will be hoping for signs of spring to emerge soon. Photo by Exmoor, Devon. Taken by SteveRwanda, Wikimedia commons.