UK frozen by Arctic blast, here's how long it will last

This weekend saw a massive drop in temperatures as an Arctic blast hit the UK. People have been getting ill as the temperatures fall, and trying various methods to get over a cold quickly. This is coming at the same time as a significant outbreak of a respiratory disease in China, which is causing concern as the world is still recovering from Covid-19.

So, as the weather gets worse, there’s one thing on our mind: when will it end? Here’s what we can expect over the next few weeks, and how long this cold snap will take to run its course.

The near weather forecast

Much of the UK has been hit by this cold spell, and significant parts of the country faced lows of -5C over the weekend. This even included southern parts of England, and it is not over yet. The Met Office has warned that we’re in for another cold night tonight, on Monday 27 November, as the UK will face ‘widespread overnight frosts’.

Deputy chief meteorologist at the Met Office, Dan Harris, said:

Early next week, following a brief more unsettled interlude, we expect to see a return to widely cold but quiet conditions. Some rain, or showers, are likely to affect some parts of the east coast, and these could turn increasingly wintry over higher ground areas towards the middle of the week.

He explained that mid-week, the chances are that rain will move in over eastern parts while snow may fall on higher areas.

When will the cold weather end?

Weather maps published by forecaster WX Charts reveal that the cold weather should be over within two weeks. From December 8, temperatures should rise again to a mild 12C.

In case you aren’t sure what 12C feels like, let’s compare it to recent statistics from around the UK. The coldest night of this cold spell so far happened in Shap, Cumbria, where the temperature fell on November 25 to -7.7C. This is far from the only spot around the UK that has been struggling with sub-zero conditions.

Happily, we don’t have too much longer to go. Wrap up warm, remember to layer-up, and it will soon be over.

Read more:

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⋙ Here's why you should always cover your nose when it's cold outside

Sources used:

Express: UK weather: Exact date temperatures rise back up to 12C after two-week Arctic freeze

Mirror: UK weather forecast: Snow and 'colder than average' wintry conditions to last fortnight