Despite the Met Office issuing a yellow warning for snow across the South West this weekend, residents in Street, Glastonbury, Wells, and Shepton Mallet are more likely to see rain than snow.

The latest forecasts suggest lower-lying areas of Somerset will escape the wintry weather, leaving toboggans untouched in the shed.

Rain, not snow, for central Somerset

While the yellow warning covers much of the region, including the possibility of 5cm or more of snow on higher ground, towns like Street, Glastonbury, Wells, and Shepton Mallet are expected to experience rain. The weekend's weather is shaping up as follows:

• Friday 3 Jan: A sunny day with highs of 4°C and lows of -3°C, offering a crisp start.
• Saturday 4 Jan: Mostly dry to begin, with rain arriving later in the day. Temperatures will range between 4°C and 2°C.
• Sunday 5 Jan: Milder air moves in, bringing light rain and highs of 13°C, with lows of 3°C.
• Monday 6 Jan: Light showers expected, with temperatures between 7°C and 2°C.

High ground might see snow

The Met Office notes that higher elevations in Somerset could still experience snow before milder air turns it to rain. Strengthening winds may cause drifting snow, and freezing rain could increase the risk of icy conditions in affected areas.

Potential impacts remain low for Somerset towns

While the yellow warning outlines risks such as power cuts, travel delays, and rural communities becoming isolated, these are less likely for central Somerset towns.

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Stay prepared

The Met Office advises keeping an eye on the forecast, as changes could still occur. For now, Somerset residents should expect a wet and mild weekend, with temperatures climbing as rain sweeps through the area. Snow enthusiasts hoping for a winter wonderland may need to head to higher ground—or keep the sleds in storage a little longer.