UK Braces for Snow Warning Amid New Ice Alerts
A snow warning has been issued alongside fresh ice alerts across the UK, with adverse weather conditions expected to disrupt travel and daily activities. The ice alert is in place from Thursday afternoon at 5pm and will last until Friday morning at 10am, covering north west England, parts of Scotland, and Northern Ireland. This comes ahead of a significant three-day snow warning beginning this weekend.
The Met Office has issued a second snow and ice warning for northeast Scotland starting at 4pm today. Additionally, a yellow snow warning is set to take effect from midday on Saturday, continuing until 9am on Monday. This extended snow warning will cover all regions of England except the south west, while Northern Ireland and parts of west and north Scotland remain unaffected. In Scotland, a separate snow warning has been announced from midnight on Sunday until midday on Monday, with the possibility of power cuts and disruptions to mobile phone coverage.
Snow warnings indicate potential travel chaos, with roads and railways likely to be impacted. Travelers in north east Scotland may face extended delays on trains, buses, and roads. Forecasts predict snowfall ranging from 3cm to 7cm starting Thursday afternoon, with over 10cm expected in higher ground areas. With the ice warning in effect, people are being cautioned about slippery surfaces and untreated roads, pavements, and cycle paths.
The snow warning comes on the heels of severe weather incidents earlier this week. In Greater Manchester, heavy rainfall caused flooding, leading to home evacuations and road and train line closures. Flood warnings remain in effect for parts of England, Scotland, and Wales, with areas such as Inverness and regions along the River Dee and River Severn still under alert.
As the snow warning and ice alerts unfold, the Met Office has urged caution and preparation. Motorists are advised to check for delays, adjust travel plans, and carry essentials such as warm clothing, food, and a torch. For those in areas likely to experience power cuts, gathering essential items like torches, batteries, and power packs is recommended.
Temperatures are expected to plummet during the three-day snow warning, with northern regions experiencing lows of -10°C (14°F). The Met Office continues to monitor the situation, providing updates on flood alerts, snow warnings, and travel conditions.
