As the autumn draws to a close, it seems that the weather is finally turning colder. Despite rumours of snow and wintry conditions, those hoping for a white Christmas may still be disappointed. While temperatures are set to drop by the end of the week, and daytime highs in single digits will become the norm for many areas, the UK’s lowest November temperatures on record were far more extreme, with daytime highs of -11.1°C and overnight lows of -23.3°C.
This change in the weather is thanks to the jet stream. For much of the autumn, westerly winds and mild, wet, and stormy weather have dominated as the jet stream raced across the Atlantic. However, this week the shape of the jet stream will shift as it begins to blow down from the north or the north-west, bringing northerly winds and a flow of air from the Arctic. These winds will be the strongest in eastern and northern parts, leading to chilly conditions.
While some areas may see snow, especially those in high ground in the Highlands, most of the UK is not expected to experience wintry weather. However, cold weather is set to last into the start of December, which also marks the beginning of the meteorological winter. A strong area of high pressure will remain to the north of the UK, keeping winds northerly or north-easterly, and leading to frost and ice overnight.
It’s still too early to predict the chances of a white Christmas, but statistically, there is a reasonable chance. As December approaches, you can stay up-to-date with the forecast on TV, online, and on the BBC Weather app. Regardless, this cooler weather marks a big change from the fall’s unprecedented heatwave and mild and wet October
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