Weekend weather: Colder temperatures and risk of snow and ice
Parts of Britain could caked in as much as 15cm of snow in a matter of hours, with temperatures plunging to a sub-zero -10C.
The area around Fort William in Scotland will see biting cold temperatures as the mercury falls overnight today, with Saturday marking the first day of more widespread snow and ice, as per Met Office weather warnings.
At present, three ice warnings are in place across parts of the UK as up to 5cm of snow is forecast in some eastern coastlines and northern areas. A yellow snow and ice warning is in place for much of the east coast of England and Scotland.
An additional two ice warnings have been issued for Northern Ireland and the southwest of England, according to the Met Office. Areas around Newcastle, Leeds, and Birmingham will feel the coldest lows, with snow depths around 4-5cm.
Jim Dale, a meterologist from British Weather Services told Express.co.uk: “There was a -9.4C in snap Cumbria last night and -10C expected for the prone Glens this weekend, which will be a fridge into the freezer weekend for virtually all.
READ MORE UK weather maps show exact date of four-day snow and icy rain blackout
“Scattered snow showers here and there but potentially more widespread snow on Saturday night into Sunday as a front system arrives.”
Met Office chief meteorologist Frank Saunders said: “Where the showers fall as rain, there is a risk of icy patches forming overnight with temperatures widely dipping below freezing. A number of National Severe Weather Warnings have been issued and these are likely to be updated over the coming days.”
The UK Health Security Agency and the Met Office have issued amber cold health alerts in five regions until December 5, meaning that “cold weather impacts are likely to be felt across the whole health service for an extended period of time”.
The regions included are the East Midlands, West Midlands, North West, North East and Yorkshire and the Humber.
Don’t miss…
The beautiful town being suddenly washed away as river begins eroding[INSIGHT]
The tiny town Scotland border outraged over the size of Christmas trees[REVEAL]
Latest UK weather maps turn blue and purple with avalanche of snow and rain[SPOTLIGHT]
- Support fearless journalism
- Read The Daily Express online, advert free
- Get super-fast page loading
For those who may be travelling on the roads this weekend, National Highways advised motorists to keep a winter kit in the car.
Dale Hipkiss, the agency’s national network manager, said: “Keeping a kit of essential items like a torch and warm clothes in your vehicle can be vital in case you and your passengers become stranded. Freezing conditions bring so many hazards such as snow and ice, so please … plan ahead for your journey, check weather forecasts, and if weather conditions do become challenging whilst travelling, adjust your driving behaviour and take extra care.
“It’s also a good idea for people to check [your] vehicles, such as tyres, coolant and oil levels, etc. before heading out to reduce the risk of breakdowns.” He added: “If you do unfortunately find yourself in an unsafe or vulnerable situation and need assistance, please contact the emergency services.”
Source: Read Full Article