Snow Forecast
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Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 14 June 2026 by the Pressorbit weather desk. Data from national met services via Open-Meteo.
Live data from Open-Meteo · updates automatically ·
The UK snow forecast on this page shows that most accumulating snow events are short-range and highly localised. The live forecast above provides the latest model data, but confidence drops sharply beyond three to five days. For reliable planning, check the map and warnings daily.
How reliable is a snow forecast for the UK?
A 14-day snow forecast for the UK carries low confidence beyond the first week. The Met Office itself advises that details of snowfall are often only certain within 48 to 72 hours. Even within that window, a shift of 10–20 miles in a weather front can change rain to sleet or snow in a particular town. The live forecast above is updated regularly and gives the best available picture, but always cross-reference with any UK Weather Warnings for your area.
Where and when does the UK typically see snow?
On average, the UK sees 15–25 days of lying snow each year in the north and east, dropping to fewer than five days in southern coastal areas. The highest probabilities occur from mid-January to mid-February. The snow forecast map on this page shows predicted accumulation in centimetres; below about 2 cm it rarely settles on roads. For a snow forecast near London or snow forecast near Manchester, the live data above is the most reliable guide – both cities typically average only one or two days of lying snow per season.
15–25 per year (north/east); <5 per year (south coast)
January–February (highest probability)
Typically above 200 m in southern England; above 100 m in Scotland
At least 2 cm for road disruption risk
What is the difference between sleet, snow and lying snow?
The type of precipitation depends on the temperature profile of the atmosphere from cloud to ground. Snow reaches the surface when the entire column is at or below 0 °C. Sleet occurs when a warm layer melts snowflakes into rain that refreezes near the ground. Lying snow is defined by the Met Office as at least 50 % of the ground covered to a depth of 1 cm or more. The snow forecast inches data on the live chart above usually shows total accumulation – a value of 2–3 inches (5–8 cm) can cause travel delays in low-lying areas.
How to read the snow forecast map and live data above
The interactive map on this page uses colour-coded layers for precipitation type and depth. Blue indicates rain, pink or white indicates snow, and purple shows mixed sleet. To check a specific location, hover or tap the map – the tooltip gives the 14-day snow forecast europe for Alpine resorts is also viewable by toggling the region. For UK-specific planning, the UK Weather Warnings page provides government-issued alerts. Remember that a snow forecast 14 days ahead is a broad trend, not a guarantee; always recheck closer to the date.
Frequently asked questions about UK snow forecasts
Will it snow in London or Manchester next week?
The live forecast above shows the most accurate short-term view. For London, significant snow (more than 2 cm) is rare, occurring on average once every two to three winters. Manchester sees slightly more, typically two to three snowy days per year. Check the map for your exact postcode – a difference of 10 miles can determine whether rain or snow falls.
What does “snow forecast inches” mean on this page?
The snow forecast inches figure shows predicted total accumulation of fresh snow over a given period. It is displayed as both inches and centimetres for convenience. One inch equals approximately 2.5 cm. This is the depth you might measure on a flat surface, not drifting or settled snow. Use it to gauge whether school or road closures are plausible.
How does a 14-day snow forecast for the Alps compare to the UK?
A 14-day snow forecast europe for Alpine regions is generally more reliable than for the UK because the high mountains have stable cold air and predictable orographic lift. The UK’s maritime climate means small temperature changes can flip rain to snow. For skiing plans, the snow forecast alps 14 days on this site’s map can help identify broad powder windows, but always confirm with local reports.
For the most up-to-date look at current conditions, see our UK weather hub. If snow is forecast, the Cold Weather Payment Checker tells you whether your area qualifies for financial support. Always rely on the live forecast above and official UK Weather Warnings for safety-critical decisions.
