Lightning snow warning with power cuts risk for 66 hours | Weather | News
The Met Office has warned that parts of the UK could face power cuts of up to 66 hours over a four-day period due to snow, ice and even lightning storms. Much of the UK, including England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, faces one of several yellow weather warnings between Thursday and Sunday.
However, in Scotland the warning lasts longest; yellow warning starts at 6am on New Year’s Day and lasts until 11.59pm on Sunday; A period of 66 hours. Separate snow and ice warnings were issued for England, Wales and Northern Ireland, while households were told that the Arctic blast would cause potential disruption across much of Scotland, with travel affected and energy supplies at risk.
While the Met Office warned of possible disruptions in electricity supplies due to snow and lightning strikes, households in affected areas were asked to be prepared.
The Met Office said for Scotland: “Snowfall is expected to continue throughout the weekend, with strong northerly winds reaching inland. Winds will ease slightly by Sunday, by which time coastal showers will be more common. Temperatures inland are likely to remain below freezing throughout the weekend, with snow not expected to melt.”
“Regarding additional accumulations: local accumulations of 2 to 5 cm, locally 10-15 cm, are possible in low-lying areas over the weekend. 15-30 cm of snow accumulations above 200 m are possible, most likely for the north-west Highlands and Grampians. Given the strength of the wind on Saturday, some snow drift and temporary blizzard conditions are likely. Lightning near showers will pose an additional danger.”
He added: “People can cope better when they prepare in advance for the risk of losing services and amenities due to power outages or snow. This is easy to do; consider packing flashlights and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items.”
The Met Office warned those in affected areas: “People cope better when they are prepared in advance for the risk of losing services and amenities due to power outages or snow. This is easy to do; consider packing flashlights and batteries, a mobile phone power supply and other essential items.”
“Snowy and cold weather can cause delays and make driving conditions hazardous, so to keep yourself and others safe: plan your route, check for delays and road closures, change travel plans if necessary; if driving, allow more time to prepare and check your car before setting off; make sure essential items are packed in your car in case of any delays (warm clothing, food, water, blankets, a flashlight, ice scraper/de-icer, a warning triangle, high-visibility vest and in-car phone charger).”
