The UK is bracing for an extended period of cold weather according to experts, with forecasts suggesting a significant drop in temperatures and substantial snowfall.

The latest weather models reveal a widespread cold front moving south from Scandinavia, potentially bringing a 700-mile wall of snow that could impact large parts of the UK.

This cold spell is anticipated to begin on November 18 and could last well into late November.

The forecast from WX Charts indicates that 850 hPa temperatures – 1,500 metres above sea level and a key metric for forecasting snow – will plunge, particularly in northern areas.

For parts of the UK, temperatures at this altitude are expected to drop as low as -5C or below, creating ideal conditions for snowfall.

The map reveals deep blues and purples across Scotland and Northern England, signalling sub-zero temperatures that could lead to heavy snow accumulation.

Another model from TheWeatherOutlook projects substantial snow depths by November 24, with some areas, particularly in Scotland, expected to see up to 25cm of snow.

The image shows accumulations primarily across the northern regions, with snow depths of 15cm to 25cm forecast for the Scottish Highlands.

Lower but still significant snow depths are also predicted for parts of Northern England, Wales, and Ireland, with several centimetres accumulating in these regions.

This widespread snow coverage would likely affect rural and mountainous areas, leading to disruptions in transportation and outdoor activities.

While the north faces potential heavy snowfall, southern regions may experience mixed precipitation due to slightly warmer temperatures.

Upon sharing weather maps of Europe on X, climate expert David Birch commented: “One must remember these images are from long range forecast 12+ days. If however it verifies the UK will be under a significant period of cold and snow.”

This significant period of cold could mark the beginning of an unusually chilly November, with forecasters closely monitoring whether these cold conditions could persist into December.

In its long-range forecast, the Met Office said chances of widespread or disruptive snowfall are “very low”.

It also said: “Turning more unsettled into next weekend with low pressure probably becoming established close to the UK bringing rain or showers to most regions. The heaviest and most frequent spells of rain are most likely in the north and west. Drier and brighter spells of weather remain possible, particularly in southern regions. Some wintry precipitation is possible in places, with snow most likely to fall over high ground in the north.”