It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, all except a covering of the white stuff.

At this time of year, thoughts turn to the weather and the big question is always – Are we going to get snow in time for the big day?

If you were hoping to build a snowman, throw a few snowballs or see some sledge action this year, unfortunately Hampshire looks set for a wet Christmas rather than a white one.

In reality, this is the likely outlook for December in the UK with the Met office saying: “For most parts of the United Kingdom, Christmas is only at the beginning of the period when it’s likely to see snow.

“We are more likely to see snow between January and March than in December, with snow or sleet falling an average of 3.9 days in December compared to 5.3 days in January, 5.6 days in February and 4.2 days in March.”

So what’s with all the snowy scenes on Christmas cards and advent calendars? Well, that’s all history apparently.

“White Christmases were more frequent in the 18th and 19th centuries, even more so before the change of calendar in 1752 which effectively brought Christmas back by 12 days,” the Met Office continued.

“Climate change has also brought higher average temperatures over land and sea and this generally reduced the chances of a white Christmas.”

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Met office predictions for a white Christmas

According to the Met Office, snow in the south is simply not on the horizon.

The weather across the country is expected to turn unsettled towards Christmas, particularly in the south, due to a front approaching bringing cloud as well as rain and possibly wintry conditions too.

As time goes on, temperatures should become milder, although stronger winds are possible in southern regions.

Towards the end of the year, you can expect more settled conditions with the potential for frost and fog.

Overnight, temperatures are likely to be rather cold so if you’re heading out on New Year’s Eve – don’t forget your coat!

Bookies odds on white Christmas

If you’re a betting person, each year the bookmakers offer some indication on where they think will enjoy a white Christmas.

Here’s Paddy Power’s odds for this year.

  • Aberdeen (Airport) 3/10
  • Edinburgh (Airport) 4/11
  • Glasgow (Airport) 1/2
  • Leeds (Leeds Bradford Airport) 4/7
  • Newcastle (Airport) 4/6
  • Birmingham (Airport) 5/6
  • Belfast (Airport) 6/4
  • Liverpool (Airport) 17/10
  • Cardiff (Airport) 17/10
  • London (City Airport) 17/10
  • Bristol (Airport) 17/10

These odds are correct as of midnight, December 21, but are subject to change.

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Unsurprisingly, the further south the location, the longer the odds are for snow falling on Christmas day.

Whatever the weather though, here’s hoping for a very merry Christmas for all.