The latest model runs show that it will be mainly too mild for snow on Christmas Eve over most of the UK and Ireland, and even more so over western and southern areas. Scotland and northeastern counties might see some cold air flowing in between Christmas Day and Boxing Day and chances for snow will be increasing, especially on higher grounds above 1200ft.

High pressure over the central Atlantic and Greenland is channeling the breezy cold arctic air to to flow across the rather mild NE Atlantic Gulf Stream waters, turning it damp and somewhat milder. However, it will turn gradually colder by then and the expected precipitation over northern and north-eastern areas might turn to snow and sleet overnight and on higher grounds.

Updated Thursday 11:32 am.