The question of whether it snows in London in November is a common one. While snow flurries are technically possible, the appearance of significant or lasting snow in the UK capital during November is exceptionally rare. Understanding the actual likelihood requires looking at long-term meteorological data and the unique geographic factors influencing London’s climate.
Historical Data on November Snowfall
Based on historical weather records, November snowfall in London is a negligible event. Data from the 1961–1990 climate period indicates London averages approximately one day of recorded snowfall in November. The average depth of snow lying on the ground is statistically zero, meaning any snow that falls typically occurs as brief flurries that do not accumulate.
The chances of widespread or disruptive snowfall in the London area during November remain low. Even when the air temperature drops low enough for snow, the ground temperature in the city often remains above freezing, causing snowflakes to melt instantly upon contact. Significant November snowfall, where accumulation occurs, is considered a rare meteorological event, with notable instances often separated by more than a decade.
London’s Typical November Climate Profile
Since snow is highly unlikely, visitors should expect a cool, damp, and predominantly gray environment. Average high temperatures in November hover around 10 to 12 degrees Celsius (50–54°F), and average lows settle between 4 and 7 degrees Celsius (40–45°F). These temperatures are well above the freezing point required for sustained snowfall.
November is characterized by a transition toward winter, bringing an increased likelihood of rain and persistent cloud cover. London typically sees between 10 and 17 days of rainfall, with an average monthly total of around 60 millimeters. Cloud cover increases throughout the month, with the sky being overcast or mostly cloudy up to 70% of the time, resulting in fewer hours of sunshine.
Geographic Influences on London’s Mild Winters
The primary reason London avoids significant early-season cold is the powerful moderating influence of the North Atlantic Current, often referred to as the Gulf Stream. This ocean current transports warm water from the tropical regions across the Atlantic, keeping air temperatures in Western Europe milder than other continental locations at similar latitudes. The oceanic climate it promotes prevents the extremely low temperatures necessary for heavy or prolonged November snow.
Further contributing to the city’s warmth is the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect. London’s dense concentration of buildings, roads, and human activity absorbs, retains, and releases heat, making the urban center warmer than the surrounding rural areas. During winter, this effect can raise the city’s temperature by an additional 0.6 to 1.7 degrees Celsius, often enough to prevent precipitation from falling or settling as snow.