Met Office warns of returning snow across the UK

Why the Met Office forecast matters

Snow and wintry conditions can disrupt travel, power supplies and daily routines, so official forecasts matter for households, businesses and transport operators. The Met Office’s long-range outlook for February has signalled a return to wintry weather for parts of the UK, highlighting the need for early awareness and preparation.

Main details of the forecast

Current conditions in London

As of 04 February 2026 at 07:18 local time, London reported mist with a temperature of 6.0°C, full cloud cover and 100% humidity. Visibility was around 5 km and light southeast winds were present. These milder, misty conditions are the nearer-term state in the capital even as colder air begins to intensify elsewhere.

Where snow is expected

The Met Office has named a number of UK areas where snow is forecast to fall in February and issued maps showing regions likely to be impacted. Reports note 22 UK areas facing snow before Thursday, with snow showers expected to return next week and to affect several towns and cities. In particular, snow is expected over higher ground in Wales as colder air becomes more established.

Why the pattern is changing

The Met Office’s long-range forecast for 4–28 February explains the drivers: frontal systems over the North Atlantic, steered by a south-shifted jet stream, are likely to approach the UK at times. These systems may stall when they encounter a blocking area of high pressure to the north and northeast, favouring spells of rain, wind and snow rather than a rapid progression of milder weather.

Conclusion and what to expect

The forecast points to a familiar winter set-up of alternating milder and colder spells, with rain, wind and localized snow — particularly on higher ground and in northern and central areas as colder air intensifies. Residents and travellers should monitor Met Office updates for location-specific warnings and timing. Forecasters indicate the potential for disruption in affected areas through late February, so planning for slower journeys and checking local conditions is advised.