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Just as everyone was settling into spring, the weather in Britain does its usual thing — it turns on a dime. Weather forecasts show up to 36 hours of snow, frost, and icy blasts set to hit parts of England and Scotland this week.

All the warmer weather and sunshine over the last few weeks? That’s a distant memory for now.


UK weather maps show 36 hours of May snow: What’s happening?Per The Mirror, cold air from the Arctic is barreling south, threatening at least 13 counties. Forecasters say snow will likely start falling in northern regions by Tuesday afternoon and could keep up through Wednesday night, with some spots dropping near freezing after dark.

Although May is supposed to bring longer days, flowers, and that sense of things warming up, the British weather likes to remind you: winter can make a comeback whenever it wants. Meteorologists say this cold spell fits right into the long history of late spring surprises.


The snow alert: Which places might be hit?Forecasts show snow will likely hit parts of Scotland, northern England, Yorkshire, and County Durham. Towns like Harrogate, Darlington, Newcastle, and Durham could see long stretches of wintry showers as the cold pushes south. Higher ground is most likely to get the brunt of it.

Just a few nights ago, Scotland logged its coldest May night in five years: Altnaharra in Sutherland dropped to -6.1°C. In Shetland, people woke up to snow and frost.

The Met Office isn’t sugar-coating things, warning most of Britain to expect colder-than-average temperatures, chilly winds, rain, and overnight frosts. Maybe the south gets a few warmer days near 20°C later in the week, but it’s staying cold in the north.


Why snow in May?Now, this is a genuinely curious situation — so, the question is valid. Why is it happening in May? Turns out, northerly winds are pulling icy air from the Arctic right across the UK. When that air hits passing rain systems, you get sleet and snow, especially if you live up a hill. Netweather pointed out that Scottish mountains and some northern areas could definitely still see more snow as the week goes on.

However, it's not going to be a blizzard everywhere. Expect rolling bands of winter showers, with rain, hail, and the occasional snow flurry mixed together. Even so, strong winds and damp air will make it feel colder than the thermometer says.

The other worry comes with frost. Rural areas in Scotland and the north might dip well below zero at night, which could do a real number on gardens and spring crops.


The history of snow in MayIf you’re thinking this is the first time the UK is getting snow in May, you might want to take a look back. Sure, May snow might sound wild, but it certainly has happened before.

Back in May 1891, the UK got hit with a cold snap that brought snow as far south as London, just days after a heatwave. Crops got wrecked, travel was a mess, and everyone’s holidays were ruined.

This year doesn’t look set to break any records, but it’s a good reminder of how British weather swings can catch everyone off guard. Climate scientists say unpredictable weather patterns (sudden cold after warmth, for example) are becoming more common, even as overall temperatures rise.


Bracing the snow: Tips to fight the coldWhat should you do in this May snow?

For one, it’s not the week to stash away all your winter clothes. Households that already turned off the heat might rethink things.

If you’re planning to drive in northern England or Scotland, keep an eye on weather updates. Icy roads are risky, especially in the early morning or late evening.

Anyone going outside should dress in layers, bring waterproofs, and be ready for things to change hour by hour. With wind chill, it could feel much nastier than the actual temperature.

Moreover, don’t forget pets, either. Keep the animals warm overnight, particularly in rural spots.

Energy experts are also reminding people to check their heating and keep essentials like blankets and torches ready, just in case the cold snaps cause disruptions.

The good news is that forecasters think the deep freeze won’t stick around too long. The Met Office says it ought to warm up again later in May, though things might stay unsettled and a bit cooler than average.


So, for now, get ready to dig out your winter coat if you’re in England or Scotland. It’s probably not time for flip-flops just yet.