Parts of the United Kingdom are bracing for heavy snowfall rates of up to 5cm per hour in the aftermath of Storm Amy. According to the GFS weather model maps, snow is predicted to fall in certain regions by mid-October, marking the onset of the winter season for many areas.
The weather models indicate that Scotland is likely to experience snowfall on October 18 and 19, particularly affecting Perth, Inverness, and spreading to Ross and Cromarty later in the day. Meanwhile, lower-lying areas across the UK are expected to face intense rainfall during the same period.
Northern England and Scotland will witness eastward-moving rain throughout the day, with conditions turning increasingly unsettled towards the end of the month, as per the Met Office’s forecast for October 18 to November 1. The transition to more unsettled weather patterns in late October may bring frequent rain or showers accompanied by strong winds, while temperatures are anticipated to remain near average levels.
Currently, Storm Amy, the first named storm of the season, is pummeling the UK with forecasted winds reaching speeds of up to 100mph. Amber and yellow warnings have been issued nationwide due to the storm’s impact.
Although Storm Amy is primarily affecting Northern Ireland and northwest Scotland, its strong winds and heavy rain may be felt across the UK. British Weather Services’ senior meteorologist, Jim Dale, emphasized the severity of the storm, warning of gusts exceeding 90mph, particularly in exposed regions of north and northwest Scotland.
The Met Office has issued three amber weather warnings for wind across Northern Ireland to northern Scotland, signaling a threat to life. These warnings are in effect from Friday afternoon through Saturday, highlighting the dangerous conditions brought by Storm Amy.