With Christmas fast approaching, many are wondering whether the South of England will experience a festive snowfall this year.
While weather predictions are always subject to change, early forecasts from WX Charts, run by MetDesk, suggest that a white Christmas may be unlikely for Sussex and Hampshire.
According to the latest weather maps, heavy rain is expected to hit Sussex and Hampshire on Christmas Day, with the wintry weather more likely to affect areas further north. Predictions indicate that regions north of London may see snow showers, raising hopes for a classic Christmas scene in those parts of the country.
While the WX Charts forecast paints a wet picture for the South, the Met Office remains cautious in its outlook. Meteorologists have stated that it is still too early to predict with certainty whether snow will fall in the southern regions. They are encouraging residents to keep an eye on weather updates in the coming days, as conditions could shift as Christmas draws closer.
The term "white Christmas" is often used to describe the sight of snow falling on December 25, but in weather terms, it only takes a single flake to be recorded at designated weather stations for it to count. This means that while some areas may experience light snowfall, it may not be enough to settle on the ground.
Historically, snow on Christmas Day in the South of England is a rare occurrence. The UK, in general, is more likely to see snowfall in January or February, when temperatures are colder. However, weather patterns have become increasingly unpredictable, and forecasters caution that sudden changes in atmospheric pressure or storm movements could affect the outlook.
For those dreaming of a white Christmas in the South, there’s still a chance the weather could surprise everyone. With the Met Office advising people to stay updated on forecasts, all eyes will be on the weather reports in the days leading up to December 25. Until then, Sussex and Hampshire residents may need to prepare for a rain-soaked, rather than snow-dusted, celebration.