Exact date UK freeze is due to end, as Brits brace for heavy snow from Storm Goretti
Storm Goretti is expected to bring as much as 20cm of snowfall in certain areas amid continuous freezing temperatures
The UK’s current spell of freezing weather is expected to begin easing later this week, as a deep area of low pressure moves across the country, bringing snow, rain and strong winds.
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The country has been hit with up to 20cm of snow and temperatures as low as -12C, with schools being forced to close and journeys being thrown into chaos.
Workers have also experienced a hard time commuting to work in the extreme weather, but thankfully, for many, the freeze caused by Storm Goretti could soon be on its way out.
Here is what you need to know.
Read more: In Pictures: Spectacular snow scenes from around the world
When will the UK freeze begin to ease?
The Met Office says temperatures should start to rise from around 6pm on Thursday, with the thaw continuing into Friday and conditions improving by around midday.
The conditions associated with Storm Goretti are forecast to cause significant disruption before gradually clearing.
While the strongest winds linked to the storm are expected over northern France, the UK will still see its impacts in the form of heavy snow, icy conditions, and difficult travel.
Forecasters warn that travel delays are likely, with possible road closures, stranded vehicles and passengers, and delays or cancellations to rail and air services.
Some rural communities could be temporarily cut off, while power cuts and disruptions to mobile phone coverage are also possible.
What is the weather forecast for the UK this week?
Snow is expected to develop over higher ground in south Wales later on Thursday, before spreading more widely across parts of England and Wales overnight into Friday as rain turns to snow.
In many areas, 5–10 cm of snow could settle, with up to 20 cm possible over higher ground, while strong winds may cause snow to drift, worsening conditions in exposed areas.
Rain and snow are expected to clear eastwards during Friday, marking the gradual end of the freeze.
Northern Scotland has already experienced severe cold, as temperatures dropped to -6°C this morning.
Around 400 schools across the north and north-east of Scotland have closed, and authorities expect that number to increase as further snow moves through.
Snow has been persistent across northern Scotland, spreading down the east coast. While lower elevations and coastal areas are seeing more rain or sleet, frozen surfaces mean widespread icy conditions remain a major hazard.
Additional snowfall of 5–10 cm above 100 metres, and locally up to 20 cm above 200 metres, is possible, with drifting snow in strong winds.
Why is it called Storm Goretti?
The French meteorological service, Meteo France, has named it Goretti because it originated there - and not in the UK, Netherlands, or Ireland, where the Met Office influences the names assigned.
Alongside its Irish and Dutch partners, Met Éireann and KNMI, the public helps decide names for storms that originate in the three countries for the storm year, which runs from September to August.
Already, Storm Amy and Storm Bram have been felt. But, Storm Benjamin, felt in October, and Storm Claudia, in November, were named by the French and Portuguese agencies, respectively.
Storm Chandra will be the next storm that originates in the UK, Ireland or Netherlands.
What can I do in the freezing weather?
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning, indicating a low likelihood but medium impact event.
Icy conditions are expected to persist, particularly overnight, as melting snow refreezes.
Authorities have urged people to plan their journeys carefully, check for the latest travel updates, and amend plans if necessary.
Drivers have been advised to allow extra time, ensure vehicles are winter-ready and carry essentials with them.
Households have also been encouraged to prepare for potential power cuts by gathering torches, spare batteries and mobile phone power packs.
Weather warnings may change rapidly and the Met Office has advised people to stay up to date with local forecasts as Storm Goretti continues to move through the UK ahead of the expected easing of freezing conditions from Thursday evening into Friday.