Janice R. Andrews
Britain is bracing for icy days and nights as temperatures are set to plummet to a bone-chilling -16°C in some parts of the country. With four yellow weather warnings in place, the UK is preparing for snow, ice, and even blizzards that could disrupt daily life in the coming hours.
Yellow Weather Warnings in Effect
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for snow across southern counties of England from 9 a.m. today until midnight. This alert warns of significant snowfall that could prove disruptive. Potential power outages, mobile phone service disruptions, and blocked rural areas are among the expected issues. Travel on roads, rail, and air could also face delays or cancellations.
A weather map highlights the cold front pushing through the southern-most parts of England, including South London. The Met Office explained: “Whilst not all areas may be affected, outbreaks of snow may push in from the southwest during Wednesday, potentially giving some significant accumulations in places.”
Snow accumulation could range from 2 to 5 cm in most areas, with up to 10 cm expected over higher ground. Coastal areas might experience rain or sleet instead of snow. The warning adds that untreated surfaces are likely to become icy as skies clear overnight, posing additional risks.
Blizzards and Icy Nights
The UK is set to experience its coldest nights of the year, with temperatures dropping to -14°C tonight and possibly -16°C tomorrow night in the North East of England and Scotland. Monday’s temperatures of -13.3°C in Loch Glascarnoch, Scotland, marked the coldest night of the winter so far, but this record could soon be broken.
Snow showers will continue across Scotland, Northern Ireland, Northern Wales, and northern England. Areas with freezing surface water and snow could experience dangerous icy conditions overnight. Despite the cold, some parts of the UK will enjoy sunny spells, particularly away from northern coastal regions.
Flood Risks Amid Freezing Weather
Flood warnings remain in effect across England as fresh snow flurries exacerbate conditions in London and Manchester. Heavy rainfall combined with melting snow has caused rivers to swell, posing significant flood risks. In Leicestershire, ongoing river flooding could persist until Thursday for larger rivers.
Environment Agency flood duty manager Stefan Laeger warned, “The recent heavy rain combined with melting snow means it is probable significant river flooding will continue. We urge people to stay away from swollen rivers and avoid driving through flood water, as just 30 cm of flowing water is enough to move your car.”
Emergency teams continue to operate flood defenses, issue warnings, and support affected communities. Fronts moving in from the South West on Friday and Saturday could bring more snow, with further weather warnings possible.
Hundreds of Schools Closed
The severe weather has forced the closure of hundreds of schools across the UK. More than 170 schools in Bradford and several in Lancashire were shut today, leaving parents and students scrambling to adjust. Transport networks have also been heavily affected, with road and rail links blocked and airports including Manchester, Bristol, and Liverpool John Lennon temporarily suspending flights.
Public Health Concerns
The UK Health Security Agency has issued an amber cold health alert for England until Sunday due to the significant health impacts associated with the cold snap. Vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions, are at heightened risk.
Emma Hardy, Floods Minister, expressed sympathy for affected communities and praised emergency services, saying, “People must continue to follow advice and sign up for flood warnings.”
Upcoming Weather Forecast
Met Office deputy chief forecaster Chris Almond predicts continued cold conditions. “Thursday will see another cold night, with potentially the lowest temperatures of the winter so far. In the early hours of Friday, a front arriving from the west could bring sleet or snow for some regions in the south and west, as well as a risk of ice.”
By Sunday, milder air is expected to move across much of the UK, reducing the likelihood of snow. Northern Ireland and Western Scotland are likely to see rain and breezy conditions, while southern and eastern regions may experience drier weather.
Precautionary Measures
As the UK faces this severe weather event, residents are urged to take precautions. Stay updated with the latest weather warnings, avoid unnecessary travel, and ensure homes are prepared for the freezing temperatures. Those in flood-prone areas should remain vigilant and ready to act on evacuation advice if necessary.
