1. Introduction
As winter weather begins to bite, residents and travellers across the north east of England will want to know where the highest chance of snow lies today. In this article we break down the latest forecast for the region, identify the most likely areas to see snow or snow-mixed precipitation, highlight what that means for travel and daily life, and provide useful tips.
2. The current and near-term forecast for the region
According to the latest data for the north east of England, temperatures remain very cold through the morning, hovering around 0 °C (32 °F) and rising only slightly to around 2-4 °C (35-39 °F) by midday and early afternoon.
Specifically:
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Early morning (06:00–10:00): around 0–2 °C, mostly cloudy.
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Midday (12:00): a mixture of rain and snow is expected as temperatures reach ~3 °C.
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Early afternoon (13:00–15:00): temperatures climb to around 3-4 °C; the likelihood of snow falls as motion turns more to rain or sleet.
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Evening: temperatures back down to ~2 °C; showers likely.
This pattern points to a narrow window for snow, primarily around midday in colder spots, particularly at higher elevations.
3. Where snow is most likely
Upland/high-ground areas
The best chance of seeing actual snow (versus just rain or sleet) is in places that meet two criteria: colder ground (often higher elevation) and showers that fall while the surface temperature remains near freezing. In the north east of England, that means:
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The uplands of the North York Moors and the Northumberland National Park.
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The higher ground of the Pennines within this region’s footprint (for instance the moors, plateaux).
These areas will still have surface temperatures around or slightly above 0 °C when showers arrive, making snow or snow‐mixed precipitation most likely.
Why these areas?
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Ground and air temperatures remain lower at elevation, meaning precipitation falling while at ~0-2 °C can remain as snow rather than immediately melting.
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The forecast indicates “rain and snow” around 12:00 & ~15:00 in the region, which suggests that mixed precipitation will occur and if conditions are right, snow will settle.
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Lower areas (towns, lowlands) warm more quickly above freezing, making snow less likely to persist.
4. Where snow is less likely
In contrast, the more urban, low-lying and coastal parts of the north east of England (for example towns and cities, coastal plain) are less likely to experience significant snowfall. Here are reasons:
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Their surface and ambient temperatures will rise to ~3-4 °C by the hour of anticipated precipitation, making snow less stable.
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Even if snow or sleet falls, it is unlikely to settle and may turn to slush or rain quickly.
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The forecast for many locations is “rain and snow” rather than pure snow, signalling a mix and leaning toward rain as temperatures climb.
5. Travel and daily‐life implications
For those travelling or commuting:
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If you’re in or heading into upland areas (North York Moors, Northumberland high terrain, Pennine moors), be prepared for patches of snow or sleet around midday. Even a thin layer of snow can make roads slippery.
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Lower ground: the hazard is more wet/slushy surfaces rather than heavy snow. Still wear suitable footwear and drive cautiously.
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If your route crosses higher ground (for example from a lowland town into moors) expect conditions to change—going from wet to snowy/slushy.
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Evening showers may bring slick surfaces, especially as temperatures drop toward 2 °C.
For outdoor or family activities:
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If you’re planning a walk, hike or outing in the uplands today, aim to go before the main midday/early-afternoon snow/rain mix or later once precipitation clears.
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If you have kids and plan outdoor play, local lower-ground areas are fine but don’t expect deep snow or sledding conditions.
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Be cautious on higher open ground: exposure to icy, slushy surfaces, or sudden snow showers can mean rapidly changing conditions.
6. Practical tips & reminders
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Check live local forecasts: conditions can vary significantly between high and low ground.
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Dress in layers: mornings are around freezing, midday only slightly above — moisture from precipitation means you’ll feel colder.
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Wear non-slip footwear if in uplands or areas where snow/slush could form.
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Allow extra travel time, especially if your route crosses higher ground or is exposed.
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Be cautious of rapidly changing conditions: snow may appear suddenly, depth may be thin but still hazardous.
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For kids / families: Bring coat, gloves and boots if you’re heading into high terrain or exposed areas. At lower terrain you may be safe for a basic walk but don’t count on snow to remain.
7. Summary – where and how much snow?
In short:
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The most likely areas to see snow today in the north east of England are the upland and higher-terrain zones: the North York Moors, Northumberland National Park, Pennine uplands.
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Lower-lying towns, cities and coastal areas will see little to no settlement of snow; if precipitation occurs it will more likely be sleet or rain.
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Snow risk is concentrated around midday when precipitation is forecast and when temperatures are still low enough (~0-3 °C).
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Settlement is unlikely to be heavy; expect patchy snow or slush rather than a thick blanket.
8. Final thoughts
If you’re planning to be out today in the north east of England, especially in higher ground, take note: this is not necessarily a heavy-snow day, but it is a cautious snow day. The hidden risk lies in unexpected snow or slush patches catching you out. For town-based activities you’re likely safe, but for anything higher-terrain, gear up, plan around midday precipitation and be ready for shifting conditions.