Snow Maps Turn Purple as Blizzards Push South to London, Essex and Surrey — Up to 2 cm of Snow Per Hour

Published: Mon, 26 Jan 2026 10:36:23 GMT UK, By: Adelynn Rhodes

Winter weather is lining up like a dramatic act, with weather maps hinting at heavy snow bands sneaking further south than usual. Forecasters say a cold spell could bring bursts of snowfall across much of the UK, with Wales potentially seeing the heaviest bursts and even southern counties seeing flakes. If you’re planning travel or simply stocking up at home, it’s worth understanding what the forecast might mean for your week ahead. Here’s a clear rundown of what’s expected, where, and how to stay prepared.

What the forecast is indicating

The latest outlook from prominent forecast models suggests a trough of cold air moving in from the north, carrying moisture that could crystallize into snow as it meets the chill in the atmosphere. The signal from WXCharts and other meteorological tools points to snow bands traveling across parts of the country next week, with a notable risk of heavy snowfall in some areas. In practical terms, you might wake up to a wintry white landscape in places where the roads are typically clear, and the snow could accumulate quickly in higher elevations or hilly terrain.

One important note: even if the snow arrives inland, coastal regions can see rain or sleet mixed with the snow, and air temperatures may hover around or just above freezing in some spots. That means surface conditions could go from slushy to icy rapidly, depending on sun exposure, wind, and precipitation type. It’s the kind of forecast that keeps you on your toes—enough to affect commutes, school runs, and weekend plans, but not a full-blown blizzard everywhere at once.

Forecast models have tended to show snow arriving gradually rather than in a single dramatic dump. That makes timing crucial: a few hours of snowfall in the early morning can impact travel more than several hours in the middle of the day, because it compounds with the already low daytime temperatures. If you’re planning a trip, consider leaving a buffer for possible delays and keeping an eye on live updates from trusted weather sources.

Regional outlook: where and when to expect the white stuff

Wales: potential for the heaviest bursts

Forecasters flag the prospect of the most intense snowfall across parts of Wales, especially in the western and central uplands. Towns tucked into valleys or perched on higher ground could see heavier flurries, with snowfall rates that may feel brisk under the wind. The mountains in mid-Wales can act like a magnet for moisture, producing steadier snow that adds to the winter scene but also increases the chances of travel disruption in those more rugged areas.

The Midlands and East Anglia: snow bands, light to moderate accumulation

Across the Midlands, cities such as Birmingham, Leicester, Northampton and Peterborough are likely to encounter a mix of snow and wet sleet at times, with colder spells dominating once the precipitation clears. East Anglia, including Norwich and Cambridge, could see a similar pattern—occasional heavy bursts followed by drier spells. In these regions, road conditions may deteriorate quickly during snowfall and then improve as crews treat and clear routes.

The northeast and central Scotland: cold air, sharper winds

Distance from the Atlantic doesn’t always spare the northeast from wintry weather. Newcastle and Middlesbrough may experience lighter snow showers at times, with patchy coverage rather than a full blanket. Central Scotland—think cities and towns around Dundee, Aberdeen, and Perth—stands a better chance of seeing more consistent snow events, helped along by the colder air mass and limited milder incursions.

The south coast and southern counties: rain with a chilly undertone

On the coast, including London, Canterbury, Brighton and Plymouth, you may see rain that’s occasionally flipped to sleet or wet snow depending on how the air temperature behaves at the surface. It’s not the same as the widespread snow seen inland, but it can still create slick surfaces and travel challenges, especially on elevated routes or bridges where wind can push moisture around.

Temperature trends and what they mean for you

Across the country, temperatures are expected to stay below or around freezing in the most exposed locations, with the coldest pockets likely in the Highlands and northern Scotland. Central Scotland could see daytime highs sitting just above freezing on milder days, but most of the country will likely hover between 1°C and 7°C as a general rule. The southern counties might experience slightly milder days, especially if there’s sun between snowfall events, but the overall message is a persistent chill that makes any snow last longer on road surfaces.

What does this mean for daily life? It means insulation becomes more important, doors and windows should be checked for drafts, and heating systems might ramp up to keep homes comfortable. It also means you’ll want to adapt your outdoor plans if you rely on predictable pavement conditions. In other words, a flexible schedule and a readiness to switch plans at short notice can be your best allies during a cold snap like this.

Practical tips for staying safe and warm

Keep an eye on the forecast and plan ahead

Weather forecasts are most useful when you check them regularly. A morning check before you head out and an evening look to plan for the next day can help you dodge the worst conditions. If you have a works commute or family routines, set backup plans for transport and childcare in case roads are icy or travel times stretch a little longer than usual.

Prepare your car and home for winter grip

Ensure your vehicle is equipped with winter tyres or all-season tyres in good condition, with adequate tread.
Keep a small emergency kit in the car: blanket, torch, water, a chargeable power bank, and a basic first-aid kit.
Stock up on essentials at home—non-perishable foods, a bottle of water per person, medicines, and a battery-powered radio in case of power outages.
Check your heating system and hot water supply to prevent disruption from a cold snap. If your boiler is older or showing signs of inefficiency, it might be worth a professional check before the worst weather arrives.

Keep pipes safe from freezing and protect your comfort

Let taps dribble during very cold spells to prevent pipes from freezing in exposed areas.
Open cabinet doors beneath sinks to allow warmer air to circulate around plumbing, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
Keep homes adequately heated; a steady, modest temperature is typically better for pipes than frequent cycling on and off.

Heating efficiency: maintenance and professional help

As the cold intensifies, you’ll want your heating to work reliably. Regular maintenance is the strongest safeguard against an unwelcome breakdown. If your boiler is older or you’ve noticed odd noises, reduced efficiency, or uneven heating, it may be time for a system check. This is a good moment to explore professional services, like those offered by Harrow Heating, who can assess boiler health, service needs, and overall heating performance to keep homes warm when you need it most.

Additionally, a heating system flush can help restore efficiency by clearing sludge and deposits that accumulate over years of use. A powerflush, performed by qualified technicians, can improve circulation and cut fuel consumption, which becomes particularly valuable when outdoor temperatures linger and you want every watt of heat to go further. For a trusted service, you might consider reaching out to Powerflush for expert guidance on restoring heating system efficiency.

If you’re in the Greater London area or nearby, you can explore options with Harrow Heating for a range of heating services, from boiler checks to routine maintenance and installations. Getting your system checked now can reduce the risk of cold nights and unexpected outages as the winter weather tightens its grip.

Travel, commuting and community planning

Snow can dramatically alter travel plans, even when it’s not a full-blown blizzard. In some areas, roads may become slippery, while in others, snow might stick for a while and then melt away after a few hours of milder weather. If you’re driving, allow extra time, reduce speeds on icy sections, and keep a safe distance behind other vehicles. Schools and workplaces could adjust timings in response to road conditions, so keeping an eye on local announcements is wise.

Communities near the coast should be mindful of higher winds that often accompany snow events. Ice formation on exposed surfaces and bridges can be particularly hazardous. For those managing facilities or public spaces, it’s worth planning for rapid salting and gritting when cold air meets moisture in the pavement, and coordinating with local authorities for timely updates.

In businesses, winter weather can affect deliveries and service availability. If you depend on a steady supply chain, consider communicating contingency plans with partners and customers, and maintain a small buffer of critical stock to weather any short-term disruption. And for homeowners, you can explore home maintenance services that help ensure your heating and plumbing stay in top shape during cold snaps, such as boiler servicing or system flushes where appropriate.

Conclusion: stay prepared, stay warm

Winter forecasts often arrive with a mix of flakes, rain, and biting winds, but being prepared helps you navigate the uncertainty with confidence. If the maps do turn purple and snow bands begin to push south, you’ll be ready to adapt, stay warm, and minimize disruption to your routines. Keeping your heating in good shape, ensuring pipes are protected, and having a practical plan for travel and daily activities can make a big difference when the weather turns stern.

And if you’re thinking about optimizing your heating system for the season, consider speaking with heating professionals who can help you stay toasty and efficient. For trusted boiler care and emergency support, you can reach out to Harrow Heating, and for system efficiency improvements, don’t overlook the potential benefits of a professional powerflush as advised by Powerflush—two partners who understand how to keep homes warm when it matters most.

Frequently asked questions

Q: How soon should I expect travel delays when snow is forecast?
A: It varies by location, but if snow begins to accumulate on major routes or icing forms on bridges, expect slower commutes and potential daytime closures or detours. Check live traffic and weather updates and plan extra time for trips.
Q: What’s the best way to protect pipes during a cold snap?
A: Let taps drip slightly, keep interior doors open to circulate warmer air, and seal drafts around windows and doors. If you’re away from home, set the heating to a low constant temperature to deter freezing.
Q: When should I consider a heating system service or powerflush?
A: If your boiler is older, makes unusual noises, or your radiators take a long time to heat up, a service is a good idea before the coldest period. A powerflush can improve circulation and efficiency, particularly in systems with old sludge buildup.
Q: How can I stay warm if I lose power during winter?
A: Have warm clothing, blankets, a charged power bank for devices, and access to a safe heat source if available. Keep a battery-powered lantern and know the location of a nearby shelter or public warming center in your area.
Q: Are there particular days to watch for the heaviest snow in forecast models?
A: Forecasts can shift as new data comes in. The general rule is to watch for signals of heavier bands in areas where cold air meets moist air, and to monitor updates from reliable weather services as the delivery timeline tightens.