UK weather: Public urged to take ‘extra care’ as heavy snow and ice sweeps country
Yellow weather warnings for heavy snow and icy conditions remain in force across much of the UK, with forecasters urging the public to be “extra careful” on the roads. The ongoing risk of flooding also causes authorities to remain cautious.
Saturday will be a cold and sunny day for most as Arctic sea air blows across the country, according to the Met Office. The yellow warning for ice covers Wales and central and southern England from Friday evening until Saturday morning. Icy surfaces can lead to challenging travel conditions and potential “some injuries” from slips and falls.
Further north, north-east England and parts of northern Scotland are under a snow and ice warning starting on Friday afternoon and lasting until Saturday morning. A further yellow warning for snow and ice will be in effect from Saturday evening until Sunday morning, stretching from Derby to Scotland.
The Met Office predicts snow could be “heavy at times” in these areas, causing “some disruption to travel”. Accumulations of 1-3 cm (snow) will be possible at low levels, 3-7 cm at an altitude of about 150 m and perhaps 10-15 cm above 400 m. Northern Ireland also faces an ice warning until Saturday morning.
Met Office chief forecaster Rebekah Hicks warned: “Snow is likely to precede the rain in northern England and Scotland and may reach lower levels at times between Saturday night and Sunday. “Snow will gradually turn to rain as the front moves eastwards across the country on Sunday.
“Rain may be heavy at times and windy in coastal areas. Additional warnings may be required. We encourage the public to follow the latest forecasts and possible warnings.”
Meanwhile, the Environment Agency has called for continued “vigilance” due to ongoing flood risks, with 75 flood alerts and 151 flood warnings currently active. Flood manager Jonathan Day said: “As a new wave of rain approaches, we want the public to be aware of the risk of flooding.
“More than 24,000 homes and businesses have been protected so far but unfortunately approximately 330 homes and businesses have been flooded and our thoughts are with the affected communities.
“Our teams will continue to do all they can to support local people by installing pumps, temporary barriers and clearing waterways to allow flood water to drain.”
Flood minister Emma Hardy added: “Flooding is devastating and my thoughts are with the people affected and I would urge residents to follow local advice over the next few days to ensure they stay safe.”
