UK Weather: Changeable Week Ahead Before Colder Shift Raises Snow Potential

LONDON, 19 January 2026 – The UK faces a week of typically British, changeable weather with cloud, rain, and near-average temperatures, according to the latest Met Office forecast. However, forecasters signal an increased chance of colder, drier conditions developing later in the month, which would raise the risk of snow across parts of the country. This comes after the nation endured severe disruption from an Arctic blast and Storm Goretti in early January.

This Week’s Forecast: Atlantic Dominance

The immediate outlook for the week beginning 19 January is dominated by Atlantic weather systems. This will bring largely cloudy conditions with outbreaks of rain, particularly in central and western areas. Some brighter spells are possible, especially in northern Scotland. Temperatures will generally be close to, or slightly above, the seasonal average. It will also turn windier, particularly in the north and southwest as the week progresses.

Longer-Range Outlook: A Battle for Control

Looking further ahead from Friday 23 January into early February, the Met Office describes a “battle” between milder Atlantic air from the west and colder, drier air attempting to push in from the east. Initially, the Atlantic influence is expected to prevail, bringing further rain. However, there is an “increased chance” that colder conditions will win out more widely later in the period.

This uncertain transition is key: if it occurs, it significantly raises the potential for snow across parts of the UK. The Met Office notes that into February, the pattern favours an increased chance of cold conditions and “the associated risk of wintry hazards at times.”

Recap: Early January’s Severe Disruption

The current forecast follows a period of significant winter weather that caused widespread disruption across the UK in the first week of January 2026. An entrenched Arctic airmass brought the coldest spell of the season so far.

• Extreme Cold & Snow: Temperatures plunged as low as -10.9°C in Cumbria, with up to 52cm of snow recorded in Banffshire, Scotland. Amber and yellow weather warnings for snow and ice were widespread.
• Storm Goretti: Around 8-9 January, Storm Goretti brought hurricane-force winds (a gust of 123mph was recorded in Cornwall), heavy snow, and a rare red ‘danger to life’ warning. It caused major transport chaos.
• Travel Chaos: The combined effects led to hundreds of flight cancellations, widespread rail line closures and severe delays, numerous school closures, and treacherous road conditions. National Highways and the AA reported a surge in incidents.

Key Weather Details

Frequently Asked Questions

Will it snow where I am this week?

For the week beginning 19 January, any snow is most likely confined to high ground in the far northeast of Scotland. For most areas, precipitation will fall as rain. The snow risk becomes more widespread if the forecast transition to colder air occurs later in January or in February.

How accurate are long-range snow forecasts?

Forecast confidence decreases the further ahead one looks. While the Met Office can identify patterns that increase the *potential* for snow (like colder air dominating), specific details on locations, amounts, and timing are not predictable more than a few days in advance. It is important to stay updated with the short-term forecast.

What should I do if a snow warning is issued?

Follow Met Office and travel authority advice. Consider if journeys are essential. If driving, ensure your vehicle is prepared, pack warm clothes and supplies, and allow extra time. Use public transport if it is running, but be prepared for delays or cancellations. Check on vulnerable neighbours.