Scotland and Northern Ireland Experience Record Mildest Christmas Day Start
Scotland and Northern Ireland have made history this Christmas Day by breaking records for the mildest start to the day ever recorded. The Met Office reported that the highest daily minimum temperature records for Christmas Day were shattered in both regions for the 24-hour period ending at 9 am this morning.
In Kinloss, Moray, temperatures soared to 11.9°C, while in Killowen, County Down, they reached 11°C. These unseasonably warm temperatures have set a new benchmark for Christmas Day weather in the region.
No Snow or Frost in Sight
According to Met Office meteorologist Tom Morgan, this year will see a “green Christmas” across the UK, with no snow or frost expected anywhere in the country. While this may be good news for those with travel plans over the festive season, it may disappoint those hoping for a more traditional white Christmas.
Morgan stated, “Great news if you do have travel plans over the next few days, no weather warnings are expected, no disruptive weather – but, as I say, not great news if you want a festive feel and certainly no snow or frost on the way.”
Mild and Cloudy Forecast
On Christmas Eve, temperatures peaked at 15.2°C in Cassley, Sutherland, and dropped to a low of 3.5°C in Wattisham, Suffolk. Looking ahead to Christmas Day, Morgan predicts a mild and cloudy start with no snow expected anywhere in the UK.
He remarked, “Christmas Day will dawn cloudy and very mild once again. If you live across northern Scotland, it’s going to be quite windy with gales in the far north and some rain.”
Overcast Christmas Day
Despite hopes for a white Christmas, the forecast indicates that most places across the UK will experience a dry and overcast day. While a few areas may see brief moments of sunshine, the overall outlook remains cloudy.
Morgan added, “Most places will have a dry and cloudy day. A few places will see a few glimmers of sunshine, but you’ll be fairly lucky to see much brightness on Christmas Day.”
As the day progresses into Boxing Day, the weather is expected to remain similar, with continued mild temperatures and cloudy skies. Some areas in northern Scotland, like the Shetland Isles, may see some sunshine, offering a brief respite from the overcast conditions.
In conclusion, while this year’s Christmas Day may not bring the traditional winter wonderland scenes, it offers a different kind of warmth and cheer to celebrate the festive season.