What is the 'Beast from the East'?

The 'Beast from the East' was a severe snowstorm that hit the UK in 2018, causing heavy snowfall of up to 20 inches in some areas.

How does sudden stratospheric warming affect the UK's weather?

Sudden stratospheric warming can disrupt the polar vortex, pushing cold Arctic air southwards and leading to plummeting temperatures and increased chances of wintry weather, including heavy snow, in the UK.

When is the next sudden stratospheric warming event expected to occur?

According to forecasters, a sudden stratospheric warming event is expected to occur around November 25-26, 2025, which could potentially bring another 'Beast from the East' style snowstorm to the UK.

Home / Weather / Sudden Stratospheric Warming Raises Snowstorm Risks for UK in Late 2025

Sudden Stratospheric Warming Raises Snowstorm Risks for UK in Late 2025

17 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Sudden stratospheric warming could bring heavy snow to UK again
Forecasters warn of potential 'Beast from the East' repeat in late 2025
Snowfall up to 20 inches reported in parts of UK during 2018 event

Sudden Stratospheric Warming Raises Snowstorm Risks for UK in Late 2025

According to the latest weather reports, the UK could be facing the prospect of another major snowstorm similar to the 'Beast from the East' event that hit in 2018. Meteorologists say a sudden stratospheric warming (SSW) phenomenon, which was responsible for the 2018 snowfall, is expected to occur around November 25-26, 2025.

The SSW process involves a rapid warming in the stratosphere, between 10-50 km above the Earth's surface, which can disrupt the polar vortex and push cold Arctic air southwards. This led to temperatures plummeting and heavy snow accumulations of up to 20 inches in parts of the UK three years ago.

While forecasters don't anticipate a repeat of the 2018 conditions, they warn that the upcoming SSW event could still bring an increased chance of colder, wintry weather to the UK in late 2025 and through December. Coastal areas may see some wintry showers, and there is potential for snow on hills, especially in northern regions.