Early Snowfall Forecast for Scotland: October Chill on the Horizon
As autumn tightens its grip on the UK, early snow could be on the cards for northern regions. According to the Global Forecast System (GFS) weather model, light to moderate snow may fall over the Scottish Highlands starting 6am on October 7.
The maps indicate snowfall of up to 3cm per hour, particularly around Glencoe, Ben Nevis, and Invergarry. Areas west of Fort William are expected to see the heaviest flurries, with lighter snowfall stretching northward toward Inverness. Around 1cm of snow is expected to settle on the ground.
Second Snow Event Predicted: October 8
A second snowfall could occur around 6pm on October 8, potentially affecting locations north of Fort William and Ben Nevis. The Cairngorms National Park, including areas east of Dalwhinnie such as Gaick Lodge and Lynaberack, may also be impacted.
Storm Systems and Hurricane Influence
The Met Office reports that the arrival of Hurricane Humbert into the North Atlantic is likely to weaken the system’s tropical characteristics. However, its presence could still influence UK weather, bringing wet and windy conditions during the first week of October.
Forecasts highlight:
-
Rain and strong winds in northwestern areas
-
Drier, more stable weather in the southeast
-
Average to slightly above-average daytime temperatures
-
Possible chilly nights and fog in the south
Climate Change and Hailstorm Threats
In addition to current forecasts, scientists are sounding the alarm about how climate change is reshaping storm patterns. A new study published in Nature Communications—led by experts from Newcastle University, Bristol University, and the Met Office—suggests hailstorms may become less frequent but significantly more intense in the future.
Key Findings:
-
Fewer hailstorms, but potential for larger and more destructive hailstones
-
Greater damage risk, especially in localized regions
-
UK could experience tropical-style hailstorms in a five-degree warmer future
“Society may need to prepare for less frequent, yet more damaging hail events locally,” warned Dr Abdullah Kahraman, senior researcher at Newcastle University.
Professor Lizzie Kendon, from the Met Office, added: “These results are very concerning. They imply we need to be prepared for tropical-type hailstorms impacting Europe in the future.”
