UK snow forecast shows exact date 20 counties in England are blanketed - full list

A fresh blast of winter weather is looming, and forecasters are warning residents to brace for a new round of heavy snowfall. The latest projections point to a potent Arctic system pushing into the UK in late January, with flurries potentially beginning around midday on Monday, January 26. For households across the country, that means mentally budgeting for shovels, warm layers, and all the little tasks that come with a snow event.

Forecast models work like weather detectives, piecing together data from multiple sources to tell us what might be coming. One of the most trusted tools in this space—WX Charts, which draws on Met Desk data—suggests conditions could deteriorate once again after a period of relative quiet. If the forecast holds, it could mark a notable shift in conditions, a few weeks after a heavy spell previously swept through Birmingham and the surrounding regions.

In this article, we’ll unpack what the latest forecasts could mean for England and Scotland, share a practical list of areas most likely to feel the impact, and offer guidance on keeping your home warm and safe. And because cold snaps aren’t just about the weather, we’ll connect practical heating advice to trusted services that can help you stay comfortable and keep your heating running smoothly — including recommendations to explore Harrow Heating for boiler help and Powerflush for system cleaning if your radiators are slow to heat up or feel uneven.

What the forecast is saying about late January snow

The central message from updated forecast runs is clear: a robust winter system could bring significant snowfall across parts of the UK as we approach the end of January. The timing is often the trickiest part to pin down, but the model consensus points to an increasing chance of snow starting around the week of January 26, with heavier bands possibly setting up in pockets of northern England, Wales, and southern Scotland. It’s the kind of pattern that can tighten its grip quickly—bringing sudden travel disruptions and a chill that sticks around for a few days.

What makes this potential event noteworthy is not only the snow itself, but the scale. In Scotland, forecasters warn there could be unusually high snow accumulations if the air remains cold and moist enough to sustain persistent snowfall. In the British Isles, a confluence of cold air from the north with moisture from Atlantic systems can create stubborn snowfall bands. If you’re planning travel, school closures, or outdoor activities, keep a close eye on official updates, because small changes in wind direction or precipitation type can alter the outcome in the space of a few hours.

Three weeks earlier, a previous cold spell and storm had already left its mark on some regions. The weather cycle can feel like a wave—one storm hits, then a lull, then another surge. The current forecasts suggest we may be in for another ride on that rollercoaster, with a system that could both deliver snow and slow down the roads for several days, depending on how the air mass behaves and where the front stalls.

Indicative counties at risk in England

Forecast specialists warn that around 20 counties in England could experience notable snowfall. The exact counties named in live forecast updates can shift as new model runs come in, but here is an indicative, representative list of areas that have shown elevated risk in recent model outputs. The list is subject to change as weather models update, so check your local forecast frequently as the event approaches.

1. Bedfordshire
2. Buckinghamshire
3. Cambridgeshire
4. Cheshire
5. Derbyshire
6. Durham
7. Essex
8. Gloucestershire
9. Hampshire
10. Herefordshire
11. Hertfordshire
12. Leicestershire
13. Lincolnshire
14. Norfolk
15. Northamptonshire
16. Oxfordshire
17. Shropshire
18. Staffordshire
19. Suffolk
20. Worcestershire

Why this list matters to you: if you live in or near any of these counties, pay particular attention to updates from the Met Office and your local council. Snow zones can drift, and a county on the edge of a snow shield can suddenly become impacted with heavier flurries as gusty winds drive the system in. If you’re a commuter, it’s a good idea to consider flexible plans and give yourself extra time for travel in the event of road churn or school closures. And if you want to ensure your heating system is prepared for a demanding cold snap, consider scheduling maintenance sooner rather than later. For practical help with keeping a cold home warm, services like Harrow Heating can provide boiler servicing, breakdown repairs, and guidance on efficient operation during frosty periods. If your system has any signs of sluggish heating, a professional flush such as Powerflush can help restore radiator efficiency and improve overall comfort.

Practical steps to stay warm and safe

Snow and cold air aren’t just about looking out the window—they’re about protecting yourself and your home. Here are practical, easy-to-action steps you can take now to stay comfortable when the cold snaps hit.

• Check your thermostat and boiler: Make sure it’s working, show no error codes, and that your timer is set for constant warmth during the coldest hours.
• Bleed radiators: When radiators feel cold at the bottom yet hot at the top, air can build up and reduce heating efficiency. A quick bleed can restore balance.
• Insulate doors and windows: Draft-proofing is a simple, low-cost way to keep warmth inside and cut energy waste.
• Keep a small emergency kit: A torch, batteries, a charged phone, a first-aid kit, bottled water, and non-perishable snacks can be lifesavers if power or travel is disrupted.
• Prepare for power outages: Have a backup heat source plan, such as a safe, well-ventilated space heater or a pile of warm blankets.

Heating system maintenance for cold snaps

A cold snap doesn’t just test your lungs and your gloves—it tests your heating system too. Regular maintenance is the best defense against breakdowns when you need heat most. A well-tuned boiler runs more efficiently, uses less energy, and reduces the risk of unexpected outages during peak demand.

If your radiators aren’t heating evenly, if you hear banging or kettling noises, or if your home just isn’t as warm as you’d like, it’s worth calling in a professional. An annual boiler service can catch small issues before they become big problems, and a system flush can be a smart move if your radiators feel sluggish or if you’ve recently discovered cold spots.

When you’re ready to seek expert help, consider reaching out to Harrow Heating for boiler repairs, installations, and routine servicing. Their team can assess your boiler’s health, optimize efficiency, and help you plan for the rest of the winter. If your heater is delivering uneven heat or you’re noticing cold spots, a professional flush from Powerflush can clear out sludge and debris that build up over time, restoring hot water flow and improving radiator performance.

What to expect in the days after the snow

Snowfall is one thing; what comes after matters, too. Once the flurries begin, you may see roads become slippery, parking and driveway access restricted, and schools or workplaces adjusting schedules. In severe cases, energy demand can spike as households switch on heaters to stay warm, which can stress the grid in some areas. Utilities and local authorities typically respond with resilience measures, including gritters, road-clearing operations, and public information campaigns to help people navigate disruption safely.

On the home front, you’ll likely notice shorter days, longer nights, and a general sense of quiet as landscapes turn white. This is a moment to lean into warmth, both in your home and in your daily routines. Simple choices—like delaying non-essential errands until daylight when gritted roads are safer, or checking in with neighbors who may need a little extra help—can make a big difference during a cold snap.

A final note on staying prepared

Weather forecasts matter, but preparation matters more. The forecast can change, the snow can drift, and the timing can slip. The best approach is to stay informed, review your heating needs, and plan ahead. If you haven’t already, take a few minutes to schedule a boiler check or a radiator flush, especially if your heating system is older or has shown signs of wear. It’s a small step that can prevent bigger problems when the cold sets in and you’re counting on heat to keep you and your family comfortable.

Conclusion

Late January could bring a notable snowfall across parts of the UK, with forecasts pointing to a possible return of a “snow bomb” style pattern. While the exact counties and the intensity of the snow remain subject to change as new data rolls in, preparing now can pay off when the cold snap goes from forecast to reality. Create a plan, check your heating system, and be ready for a few days of frost-loving weather that reminds us how important it is to stay warm. And when you need trusted help with your heating, remember to consider specialists who can keep your home comfortable during cold snaps—like Harrow Heating for boiler work and Powerflush for system cleaning if needed. A warm, well-maintained home is the best weatherproofing you can have.

For ongoing updates and professional guidance tailored to your area, stay connected with local forecasts and consider scheduling preventive maintenance before the next cold push arrives. If you’d like more hands-on help or want to discuss keeping your heating system in top shape as we head into February, don’t hesitate to reach out to heating experts who can offer clear, practical advice and solutions.

Frequently asked questions

Q1: Will every part of the UK experience heavy snowfall in late January?

A1: Not necessarily. Snow is highly regional and depends on the exact track of an approaching system, air temperatures, and moisture levels. Forecasts can indicate a high risk in certain counties, but the actual snowfall distribution can shift. It’s wise to monitor updates from the Met Office and local councils as the date approaches.

Q2: How can I prepare my home for a cold snap and possible snow?

A2: Start with your heating system. If it hasn’t been serviced recently, book a check with a reputable service provider. Bleed radiators, test your thermostat, and ensure doors and windows are well insulated. Stock up on essentials, keep a warm spare blanket or two, and have a plan for if power or water is interrupted. Consider keeping a list of emergency contacts handy as well.

Q3: What is Powerflush, and should I consider it during winter?

A3: Powerflush is a professional cleaning process that removes sludge, rust, and debris from your central heating system. It can improve radiator efficiency, reduce cold spots, and lower energy bills by ensuring better water flow. If your radiators feel cold at the bottom or take too long to heat up, a Powerflush can be a smart step. Learn more at Powerflush.

Q4: When should I book a boiler service during winter?

A4: It’s best to schedule an annual service before the coldest months, but if you’re already in December or January and you haven’t had one recently, it’s not too late. A service can catch issues that might leave you without heat during a cold snap and can help your boiler run more efficiently when you need it most. Consider booking with a trusted provider like Harrow Heating.

Q5: Where can I find reliable heating help and advice for winter readiness?

A5: Look for established heating professionals who offer transparent pricing, clear diagnostics, and a track record of responsive service. For boiler maintenance and repairs, you can explore Harrow Heating, and if you’re dealing with radiator efficiency issues, a system flush from Powerflush can help restore comfort. Pairing these services with solid preventative steps will go a long way toward staying warm this winter.