Londoners should prepare for a sharp taste of winter as the BBC Weather service has issued a forecast for sleet across the capital next week.
When and Where to Expect the Sleet
The first wintry precipitation of the season is scheduled for Thursday, 20th November. According to the detailed forecast, the sleet showers are expected to begin in the early hours, around 3am, and persist throughout the morning.
This wintry mix is predicted to cease around 8am, making way for a cold but sunny remainder of the day. Overnight temperatures are set to plunge, potentially reaching a chilly 1°C.
What Exactly is Sleet?
For those wondering about the difference between sleet and snow, the distinction lies in its formation. Sleet consists of small ice pellets that occur when snowflakes partially melt as they descend through a warmer layer of air. They then refreeze before making contact with the ground, resulting in the characteristic ice pellets rather than soft snowflakes.
Broader Weather Context and Safety Advice
This cold snap arrives as Storm Claudia continues to bring heavy and disruptive rainfall to parts of the UK, with the Met Office warning that some areas could see a month's worth of rain within just 24 hours.
Meanwhile, the Accuweather long-range forecast suggests that London is not currently in line for any significant snowfall this month, though this remains subject to change.
With the first frost of the season imminent, car experts are urging drivers to take precautions. Louis Rix of CarFinance247 cautions that a light frost can severely reduce tyre grip. He advises motorists to fully clear their windows, check tyre pressures, and drive with extra caution to avoid costly accidents.
