Warnings in effect as cold weather continues

A northerly air flow continues to dampen temperatures for Britain, with sub-zero figures likely for many over the next few nights and low singles during the day for many.

A number of Met Office National Severe Weather Warnings have been issued for snow and ice, with the highest accumulations of snow likely over high ground in Scotland, but still causing some disruption at lower levels at times. Snow is also likely in parts of the southwest through Thursday.

Meteorologist Matthew Lehnert, from the Meteorological Office, said: “A northerly air flow will continue to bring snow showers into Scotland over the next few days, with this reaching lower levels at times and bringing the potential for some travel disruption.

“Overnight temperatures will drop below freezing fairly widely over the next few days, which has resulted in some ice warnings, with further warnings likely throughout this week.

“On Thursday, a mix of snow, sleet and rain is likely to affect the southwest, potentially bringing disruption. High ground in the area is likely to see snow, with a mix of conditions likely at lower levels. 2-5cm of snow is possible in places at lower levels, with around 10cm possible over higher parts of Dartmoor.”

RAC Breakdown spokesperson Alice Simpson said: “The first taste of winter means motorists are suddenly battling some of the worst road conditions we’ve seen all year. With freezing temperatures already causing disruption in eastern and northern England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, and snow showers now affecting regions further south, we advise motorists to plan well as ice forms on untreated surfaces.

“Drivers should ensure their tires have plenty of tread and are inflated to the correct pressure to give them the best possible grip. It’s best to stick to major roads rather than rural areas where surfaces may not be abrasive, reduce speed and leave plenty of space behind vehicles in front to ensure you have more time to stop.Everyone should travel prepared in case they break down on the side of the road: a blanket, warm waterproof coat and gloves, sturdy footwear and a charging cable and mobile power bank are all essential.”

Will be wet and windy this weekend

On Friday, some will get a brief respite, while snow showers will continue to pour into northern coastal areas, supplementing snow accumulations over high ground but reaching lower levels at times.

However, Saturday will see a shift to more generally wet and windy conditions, with warnings already issued to highlight potential disruption from rain and snow.

Meteorologist Mike Silverstone, deputy head of the Meteorological Office, said: “The wintry conditions will gradually ease over the weekend, although they will last longest in northern Scotland. Significant snowfall is expected across much of northern England and Scotland for a period on Saturday, mainly over higher ground.”

The change to milder air will be accompanied by heavy rain and strong winds through Saturday and into Sunday, with low pressure controlling Britain’s weather.

Mike continued: “Rain on Saturday and into Sunday is likely to have an impact for some which has resulted in warnings being issued for Wales and parts of the south west. Generally 50-75mm is expected within the warning areas but over 150mm rain is possible over high ground in south Wales. Strong winds are likely to worsen impacts and bring the potential for travel disruption as well as flooding for some.”

Unsettled weather is likely to continue on Sunday and into the start of next week, with an area of ​​low pressure gradually crossing northern parts of the UK.

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