Snowfall in November has left parts of the UK shivering and sent many people to their iPhone weather apps. But here’s the kicker: most of us have been misinterpreting what the snow percentage actually represents.
The Truth Behind the Percentage
When you see a snowflake symbol with “50%” next to it, you might think it means half of your area will be covered in snow. Logical, right? Well, not quite. According to the Met Office, the percentage actually indicates the probability of snow falling in your location during the specified time frame. In other words, a 50% snow prediction means there’s a 50/50 chance you’ll see snow—not that it’ll cover half the landscape.
Adding to the confusion, AccuWeather offers a slightly different explanation. Their Chief Video Meteorologist, Geoff Cornish, explains that the percentage reflects the number of simulations run by meteorologists that predict snow. For example, if 50 out of 100 models show snowfall, your app will display 50%.
What Does This Mean for You?
Cornish elaborates that the percentage has nothing to do with how long it will snow or how intense the precipitation might be. It’s simply a measure of the likelihood that at least 0.01 inches of snow—or rain, if it’s warm enough—will fall in your area.
So, instead of overthinking the forecast, treat it as a heads-up. Whether it’s a light dusting or a full-blown storm, preparation is key. Wear shoes with good grip, keep an umbrella handy, and maybe brace for surprises—because in the UK, weather can turn on a dime.
In the end, the snow percentage isn’t about coverage or chaos—it’s just a friendly nudge from your app to keep you ready for whatever the skies might throw your way.
