Storm Goretti brings warning of heavy snow in Wales
Storm Goretti is expected to bring heavy snow to Wales at the weekend.
The first named storm of the year is part of the Met Office’s new yellow weather warning for heavy snowfall from 18:00 on Thursday until 12:00 GMT on Friday.
Forecasters say, “5-10 cm of snow may accumulate in some areas, and there is a potential for up to 20 cm in some places.”
Up to 20 counties in Wales are expected to be affected by the latest weather warning; Travel disruptions and school closures will likely continue.
More snowfall is expected in Wales over the weekend. [BBC]
Snow and ice warnings are currently in place across Wales, causing widespread disruption as the new school term begins and many people return to work.
The Gwynedd town of Bala recorded an overnight lowest temperature of minus 9.6 degrees on Monday and in the early hours of Tuesday.
More than 380 schools were closed for the second day Anglesey, Bridgend, carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Neath Port Talbot, Gwynedd, pembrokeshire, Powys, swansea And Wrexham Drivers were left under difficult conditions as some roads were closed due to snowfall.
More snowfall is forecast and a mix of rain, sleet and snow is expected later; A Met Office spokesman warned travelers to allow extra time for journeys.
Current road closures include the A474 Pontardawe Road in Neath Port Talbot, which is closed in both directions from Waun Penlan (Pontardawe) to Abernant Road (Cwmgors).
The A542 Horseshoe Pass at Llangollen, Denbighshire, is also blocked in both directions between the B5103 (Corwen turn-off, Llangollen) and the A5104 (Wrexham turn-off, Pen-y-Stryt).
Over the weekend, residents of Bethesda, Eryri were treated to an unusual sight that saw a Second World War all-terrain vehicle driving around the village.
The Studebaker M29C Weasel was designed for use in snow and was used in places such as Norway during the war.
Andrew Singleton, a 55-year-old military collector from Bethesda who bought and restored Weasel in 2005, decided to take the A5 for a spin, which was impassable for other vehicles at the time.
He said the vehicle, which had a top speed of 36 miles per hour, “handled beautifully” and added that “everyone was pleased to see it.”
Designed in Britain and manufactured in the United States, the amphibious vehicles were part of the mission to stop Germany’s nuclear weapons program.
Dawn Stanworth, 38, a mountain leader and rock climbing instructor from Bethesda, said hitchhiking around town with a friend “made our day” and described the experience as “really fun.”
He added that it “made a lot of people smile.”
Sunlight reflects off the snowy landscape at Cwm Idwal, near Bethesda, Gwynedd, on Monday [BBC]
How to drive in snow and ice?
Driving in snow and ice can be challenging, but preparation can help.
Using winter tires for extra grip, completing windshield washing and using antifreeze are measures that will make driving easier in winter.
It’s also important to plan your trips, allow extra time, and check traffic reports before you set off.
If your car gets stuck or the wheels spin, do not try to move; this will only cause the car to sink further.
How to care for pets in cold weather?
Like humans, animals are at risk of hypothermia if they get too cold.
Raising pet beds off the floor can keep older dogs away from drafts; Cats, on the other hand, may prefer to play or rest in high caves or climbing poles.
Experts also recommend extra playtime to keep pets active if they spend less time outside: indoor toys can help.
Your pet may want to eat more to help maintain body temperature. They can also drink less, but make sure they have constant access to fresh drinking water to avoid the risk of dehydration.
You can learn more Here.
