New weather model projections suggest a major winter storm could impact large parts of the UK, with snow maps indicating a potential 680-mile blizzard sweeping across the country and reaching as far south as Ipswich. Several major cities could face heavy snowfall, travel disruption, and hazardous conditions if the scenario materialises.

The forecast comes from high-resolution ECMWF model output visualised by WXCharts, which shows a deep low-pressure system developing over northern Europe. The model suggests a band of heavy snow wrapping around the system, with significant accumulations possible across Scotland, northern England, the Midlands, and parts of East Anglia.

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However, the UK Met Office has played down the likelihood of a widespread severe snow event, pointing to a more Atlantic-driven and comparatively mild pattern in its official outlook.

In its long-range forecast for Friday 27 February to Sunday 8 March, the Met Office states: “Changeable with Atlantic frontal systems spreading across the UK followed by drier and brighter interludes. Rainfall will typically be heaviest in the northwest, with much less reaching sheltered eastern areas. Some snow is possible across high ground in the north. Winds will probably be strong at times, with a risk of gales. Temperatures are likely to be near to or slightly above average.”

Experts caution that extended-range model maps often highlight extreme but low-probability scenarios and should not be interpreted as a definitive forecast. Ensemble guidance currently shows significant uncertainty in the storm track, meaning small shifts could turn potential snow into rain for much of the UK.