Severe weather has taken hold of Merseyside, causing significant disruptions to both travel and entertainment activities, prompting Liverpool John Lennon Airport to temporarily close its runway due to heavy snow accumulation. The airport announced the closure via its social media platform early on Sunday, January 5, confirming efforts to resolve the situation and encourage passengers to check with their airlines for flight updates.
According to the airport's official statement, "Due to snow, the runway is temporarily closed but the airport remains open, please contact your airline for flight information. We are working hard to clear the runway and will provide an update at 08:45." This proactive communication came after overnight snow blanketed the region, leading to difficult driving conditions and subsequent travel headaches.
The Met Office had issued an amber warning for snow, which remained effective from the previous evening, indicating a likelihood of heavy snowfall throughout the night. Reports flooded in of numerous road closures, and the weather has already led to several incidents, including trucks getting stuck on various main roads. Merseyrail has also alerted passengers to expect cancellations and adjustments to service schedules as heavy snow has started to impact local rail conditions as well.
Compounded by these travel disruptions, the situation poses another major concern: will Liverpool's Premier League match against fierce rivals Manchester United proceed as scheduled? The highly-anticipated encounter, set to kick-off at Anfield at 4:30 PM, could be at risk due to safety concerns arising from these harsh weather conditions. City Council’s Safety Advisory Group will convene on Sunday morning to evaluate the hazards for supporters traveling to the game.
This isn't the first time weather has played spoilsport for the Reds. Earlier this season, another home fixture against Everton was postponed due to weather-related safety risks presented by Storm Darragh. Liverpool fans, now eagerly awaiting updates, are hoping for positive news as they gear up for one of the most significant matches of the season.
While snow continues to accumulate across the city, with forecasted totals between 3-7cm for most areas and potentially reaching 15-30cm on higher terrain, public safety remains the priority. The Met Office warned of additional freezing rain which could create hazardous conditions, making travel even more perilous.
The safety meeting preceding the match today aims to ascertain whether the roads are secure enough for fans to make the trip to Anfield. The advisory body's decision will have significant ramifications, as local authorities look to mitigate risk and prioritize public safety.
Meanwhile, Liverpool John Lennon Airport's updates keep fluctuated as weather clears gradually, and the gritters are making rounds as part of city officials' efforts to tackle the snow-clogged roads. The continuation of lightweight services began with Merseyrail having test runs today, albeit without passengers, to check the feasibility of rail travel. Advisory updates have indicated travel conditions are less than ideal, keeping the public informed about disruptions and how to navigate the weather impacts.
With the match day now hanging on the whims of British weather, supporters eagerly keep their fingers crossed for clarity. Liverpool's pursuit of glory hinges on being able to fend off Manchester United, and the conditions surrounding the game will determine the level of excitement or the disappointment of yet another postponed fixture.
Taking it one step at a time, fans are urged to stay updated with real-time weather developments and travel warnings leading up to this clash of the titans, as both teams are prepared to give their all on the pitch, if conditions permit.