UK snow forecast shows rare freezing rain risk this weekend

The Met Office has active snow and ice warnings and temperatures are expected to fall to around −12°C in places, while weather models show a rare band of freezing rain could affect parts of northern England and southern Scotland this weekend.

Met Office weather warnings for snow and ice remain in place across the UK as temperatures are expected to drop to around −12°C in some areas. Weather models indicate snow plus a less common band of freezing rain may move across parts of northern and central Britain over Saturday night into early Sunday. Freezing rain forms when liquid droplets become supercooled and freeze on contact with surfaces. The Met Office describes freezing rain as an uncommon phenomenon in the UK and notes it can be hazardous. Key facts: - The Met Office has issued warnings for snow and ice and forecasts temperatures down to about −12°C in some locations. - GFS model output referenced in reports shows freezing rain appearing over parts of northern England on Saturday evening and extending into southern Scotland and upland areas around midnight to early Sunday. - Freezing rain consists of supercooled liquid droplets that freeze on contact with cold surfaces and is reported to increase the risk to roads, trees and power lines. Summary: The combination of snow and a band of freezing rain could increase strain on transport and local infrastructure, with the Met Office warning of possible power cuts and slip hazards. Undetermined at this time.