Snow forecast maps show exact date blizzards hit England - full list of 12 counties

The United Kingdom is shivering on the edge of a brutal cold snap. Weather maps, drawn from WXCharts and built with data from MetDesk, point to a day of significant wintry weather on December 27. Picture this: a blanket of cold air sweeping in, temperatures plunging to near -2C in much of England, while Scotland nudges into a chilly 2–3C. Snow is forecast to lie in layers across several counties, with a subset of the country expected to feel the brunt of the blizzard.

If you’ve already started checking the forecast, you’re not alone. Snow forecasts have a way of turning ordinary days into planning marathons—school closures, travel disruptions, and the constant question of “do I need to layer up again?” Today, we’ll break down how these forecast maps work, what they’re predicting for December 27, and practical steps you can take to stay safe and warm. We’ll also weave in practical notes for homeowners and drivers alike, including how trusted heating specialists can help you stay comfortable when the mercury drops.

How forecast maps work in practice

Forecast maps are a blend of science, art, and a little bit of meteorological detective work. At their core, they stitch together data from weather models, satellite observations, and ground reports to predict how the atmosphere will behave in the near term. Two names you’ll hear a lot are WXCharts and MetDesk. WXCharts curates model output from multiple sources and presents it in an accessible, map-based format. MetDesk, meanwhile, is a weather data company whose information often feeds into regional forecasts and local decision-making tools.

Think of a forecast like a city map during rush hour. The traffic (weather) changes minute by minute. The map shows you where the bottlenecks are likely to form, where the roads are clear, and where surprises may lurk just beyond the horizon. In weather terms, that means temperatures, precipitation types (rain, snow, sleet), wind strength, and timing. The forecast is most reliable when a few days out. As the event draws closer, the forecast narrows and sometimes shifts as new observations come in.

Forecasts for snow add a few extra layers of complexity. Snow depends on a delicate balance of air temperature, humidity, ground temperature, and air movement. Forecasters track these variables across multiple forecast runs to build a probabilistic picture. That probability is what you see on maps: blobs of color indicating snow likelihood and expected depth, and arrows showing wind direction that can drive drifting. So when the maps say December 27, you’re looking at a window of potential snowfall rather than a guaranteed snowfall.

The December 27 outlook: what the maps are suggesting

According to the latest WXCharts maps, prepared with MetDesk data, a wintry spell could sweep across roughly a dozen counties on December 27. Temperatures are forecast to sink well below seasonal norms in many areas—roughly around -2C across much of England—while Scotland is expected to hover between 2C and 3C. Snowfalls are described as laying on the ground in some counties, with flurries possible elsewhere depending on local conditions and wind.

To give you a sense of what the forecast covers, here are examples of counties that are currently highlighted in forecasts for snow or snow-ready conditions on that date. While the full list can shift with each forecast update, these places are representative of the general pattern you might see on December 27:

• Gloucestershire
• Wiltshire
• Derbyshire
• Nottinghamshire
• Lincolnshire
• North Yorkshire
• East Yorkshire
• Lancashire
• Cumbria
• Derbyshire
• Cheshire
• Staffordshire

It’s important to note that forecasts like these are fluid. The exact counties and the degree of snow can shift as new weather data comes in, the atmosphere evolves, and model runs are updated. If you’re planning travel or events, keep checking reliable sources and be prepared for changes in the forecast as December 27 approaches.

What this means for daily life on December 27

Snow isn’t just a pretty postcard of winter; it touches routines. Here’s what a “snow-alert” day can mean for the average person, from the commute to the kettle in the morning.

• Travel and roads: Snow and icy surfaces can lead to slower journeys, longer travel times, and occasional road closures. If you’re driving, give yourself extra time, check local travel advisories, and consider leaving earlier or staying put if conditions worsen.
• School and work: Some schools and workplaces may opt for remote learning or staggered start times. If you have to commute, verify whether your employer has a policy for snow days or flexible hours.
• Home life: Cold snaps test heating systems and windows. Drafts, iced pipes, and fluctuating temperatures become more likely. Layered clothing and warm beverages suddenly feel essential.
• Energy use: With outdoor temperatures dipping, energy bills can rise as heating systems run longer. Ensuring your boiler is efficient and radiators are working evenly becomes more important than ever.

For people with heating systems that aren’t as efficient as they should be, the cold snap can reveal hidden weaknesses. If your radiators feel icy at the top or bottom, or if some rooms stay stubbornly cold, it could be time to take action.

Practical steps to prepare for a cold snap and potential snow

Preparation is the best way to stay comfortable when snow is forecast. Here are practical steps you can take now to reduce stress on the day itself.

1) Check your heating system and insulation

Before the cold hits, make sure your boiler is in good working order. A yearly boiler service can catch issues before they leave you in the cold. If you notice cold spots in your home or inconsistent radiator heat, consider a radiators’ flush and bleed. A well-balanced heating system warms rooms faster, helps you stay comfortable, and can lower energy consumption.

If you’re worried about sludge buildup or poor water flow in your heating circuit, a professional system cleanse can help. A professional service like Powerflush can remove sludge, rust, and other debris from your central heating system, improving efficiency and heating performance. You can learn more about this service at Powerflush .

2) Improve insulation and seal drafts

Small drafts can steal a lot of warmth. Check doors and windows for gaps and seal them with weatherstripping or draft stoppers. Thick curtains at night can help keep heat in, and insulating a loft or attic hatch can prevent heat from escaping upward. Layering up with warm clothing indoors is not just practical; it can reduce the urge to blast the heating too high.

3) Prepare for potential power outages

In severe cold snaps, power outages can occur. Create a small emergency kit with a flashlight, spare batteries, a charged power bank, bottled water, and a few non-perishable snacks. If you rely on electricity for heating, consider a backup plan such as a portable, safe heater for emergencies, and never use outdoor heaters indoors due to carbon monoxide risks.

4) Protect pipes from freezing

Pipes can freeze and burst if temperatures plummet and water inside them expands. If you’re going away, leave a small trickle of water running through taps connected to pipes that run through unheated spaces. Open cabinets beneath sinks to let warmer room temperature reach plumbing, and keep a hairdryer handy to thaw any exposed pipes carefully if they begin to freeze.

5) Plan for travel and errands

Decide in advance how you’ll handle essential trips. If roads look risky, postponing nonessential travel or car-sharing with a friend can be safer options. Have a fully charged phone, a simple map, and a jug of warm clothes and blankets in the car in case you get stranded and need to wait for help.

Heating and home maintenance: where to turn for expert help

During a cold spell, a well-tuned heating system is your best ally. If you’ve noticed performance issues or you just want a proactive check, it may be worth turning to professionals. A reputable heating service can inspect your boiler, check pressure levels, bleed radiators, and ensure your thermostat is accurate. In some cases, a system cleanse can improve efficiency and extend the life of your boiler and radiators.

When it comes to maintenance, two trusted services you might consider are Harow Heating and Powerflush. Harrow Heating can perform essential boiler servicing to keep you warm all winter, while Powerflush offers targeted system cleanses to remove sludge and improve heat distribution. Taking these steps can help you stay comfortable even when the forecast looks frosty.

Snow safety: driving, walking, and outdoor activities

Snow can be beautiful to look at, but it also brings hazards. Here are practical safety tips to help you navigate a snowy day.

• Drive slowly and smoothly. Accelerate and decelerate gently, and increase following distance. Stay on major roads where possible, as they’re more likely to be treated.
• Wear appropriate footwear with good tread. Snow and ice can be deceptive right underfoot.
• Keep an emergency kit in the car, including a warm coat, blanket, small shovel, food, and water. If you get stranded, stay with the vehicle and call for help.
• Check weather alerts and school closures before heading out. If you don’t need to travel, staying home is often the safest option.

What happens after the snow settles?

Snow sits on the ground and then gradually melts as temperatures rise. The thaw can bring its own challenges, including wet roads, puddles, and the potential for black ice as temperatures dip again at night. Snowmelt can also lead to localized flooding if warm spells are followed by heavy rainfall. Keep an eye on local advisories for any flood warnings, and be cautious when re-emerging onto roads after a cold spell ends.

Conclusion: stay prepared, stay warm

Winter weather forecasts are powerful tools, but they’re also fluid. The December 27 scenario painted by WXCharts and MetDesk underscores the importance of preparation. A little planning now—checking heating systems, insulating drafts, having an emergency kit ready, and knowing when to adjust travel plans—can make a big difference when the weather finally arrives. If you want reliable heating assistance or a professional system cleanse to optimize warmth in your home, consider reaching out to Harrow Heating and Powerflush for expert guidance and service.

Remember, in a winter like this, comfort is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. By understanding the forecast maps, taking proactive steps, and knowing where to turn for help, you can stay warm, safe, and prepared as December 27 approaches.

Five FAQs about snow forecasts and December 27

1. Which counties are expected to see snow on December 27?

The latest WXCharts forecast, based on MetDesk data, indicates snow or snow-ready conditions across about twelve counties. Examples mentioned include Gloucestershire, Wiltshire, Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire, North Yorkshire, East Yorkshire, Lancashire, Cumbria, Cheshire, Staffordshire, and a few neighboring areas. The exact list can shift with new model runs, so it’s wise to check updated forecasts as December 27 draws nearer.

2. How reliable are snow forecasts a week out?

Snow forecasts gain clarity as the event draws closer, but they remain probabilistic several days ahead. Forecasters use ensemble runs—multiple simulations with slightly different starting conditions—to gauge confidence. If many runs agree on snow for a county, the forecast is more reliable. If the runs disagree, expect updates and a broader range of possible outcomes.

3. What should I do to prepare if snow is forecast?

Start with your home: ensure the boiler is serviced, radiators are bleeding evenly, and insulation is as good as it can be. Prepare an emergency kit for your car and home, protect pipes from freezing, and plan for slower travel. If you’re worried about your heating system’s performance, contact Harrow Heating for service and consider a Powerflush system cleanse to improve radiator efficiency.

4. How might snow affect daily life on December 27?

Expect potential travel delays, school closures, and outdoor activity disruptions. Businesses may shift schedules, and energy use could rise as heating runs longer. Being flexible with plans and checking local advisories can save time and trouble on a snowy day.

5. Where can I find accurate, up-to-date forecasts on December 27?

Check reliable forecast platforms like WXCharts, MetDesk, and the official national weather service updates for your region. For home heating guidance and system care during a cold snap, you can explore resources from Harrow Heating and Powerflush for professional assistance.