So, Will We Get A White Christmas?
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Are you dreaming of a white Christmas? Snow-filled, Dickensian festivities don’t seem to be as common as in our own childhood, and global warming may see the end of the Christmas flurry within decades. But how about this year? We’ll update this page as the forecast gets more accurate.
What Is A White Christmas?
There are two definitions.
The one that most of us use to care about: “Is it snowing on Christmas day where I live?”.
The official definition: “[At least] One snowflake to be observed falling in the 24 hours of 25 December somewhere in the UK”.
That second definition is more flexible than it used to be. Until recently, the snowflake had to be observed at the Met Office in London. Now it can be any weather centre in the country.
How Common Are White Christmases In The UK?
More common than you might think. Snow falls somewhere in the UK on seven out of every ten Christmases. However, that impressive tally includes many a Yule where you’d hardly notice.
The last Christmas with significant and widespread snowfall was 2010, when you might have enjoyed a snowball fight more or less anywhere in the country. This is very rare. According to the Met Office, only 4 out of the past 51 years have seen widespread snow cover on Christmas day.
So, Come On, Get To The Point… Will We See Snow This Christmas
Updated 16 December: The current forecast gives a week of mild weather, followed by below-average temperatures starting around Christmas. It might just snow on Christmas Day, though a fall is more likely in the days afterwards.
Bookmakers have the odds at 4/1 that it will snow somewhere in the UK, with the chances highest in Scotland. We'll update this information as the big day gets closer.
See Also
Snow jokes that’ll have you balling with laughter
Brrrrrilliant weather-learning activities for all ages
40 unbelievable weather facts for kids
Mum… where does the wind come from? (and other weather questions answered)
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Bachelor of Science specializing in Chemistry, Master of Research specializing in Biomolecular Sciences
Matt BrownBachelor of Science specializing in Chemistry, Master of Research specializing in Biomolecular Sciences
With a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry and a Master's in Residency specializing in Biomolecular Sciences and roots in the Midlands, Matt has developed a passion for writing about London. As a former editor and prolific contributor to Londonist.com, he has authored several books exploring the city's hidden gems. In addition to his work, Matt enjoys spending time with his two preschool-aged children.
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