Snow is set to blanket Birmingham as the Met Office warns residents of hazardous conditions this weekend. An amber weather warning encompassing snow and ice has been issued, beginning at 6 PM on Saturday and concluding at 11:59 PM on Sunday, January 5.
The weather service forecasts varying temperatures between 0 and -1 degrees Celsius over the weekend, with the city potentially facing up to 5 centimeters of snow accumulation. Following the snowfall, rain is expected to wash over Birmingham on Sunday, leading to likely travel disruptions and hazardous road conditions.
This winter, Birmingham is not alone; millions across the UK brace for significant snowfall, particularly in Scotland and northern England where predictions claim depths could reach as high as 22 centimeters. For areas such as Birmingham, the situation demands caution, as motorists may find themselves grappling with icy roads and reduced visibility.
The Met Office reflected this concern, warning of potential powercuts and road closures due to the adverse weather. A gloomy forecast reveals start-of-the-day temperatures being cold, with snow beginning to fall at approximately 7 PM on Saturday. The snow, described as heavy during the evening hours, will transition to rain overnight. Sunday morning's outlook will bring milder temperatures, but the potential for freezing rain lingers.
Birmingham's hour-by-hour forecast suggests steady drops as the day progresses, with snow commencing around 8 PM on Saturday, peaking near 95 percent snow chance by 10 PM. The forecast details how the wintry conditions will evolve from snow to rain, stressing the importance of being prepared for slippery sidewalks and possibly impassable roads.
An additional forecast update indicates Sunday will present continued rain through the day, with temperatures rising to about 6 degrees Celsius. The Met Office has advised caution on icy surfaces anticipated throughout next week due to residual cold conditions.
Weather expert James Madden from Exacta Weather also emphasizes the need for caution with these weather situations, stating, "This is one of the big and widespread snowy periods of this winter coming to fruition.” He continues to stress the importance of vigilance during such snow events. "Enjoy, but also take care with the extra hazards these conditions present.”
Despite the impending rain, Madden warned of returning snowy conditions as the week progresses. "My forecast has always stated after this weekend's snow event, we will effectively see the snow coming back on itself and returning from the north to large parts of central and southern regions during early next week,” he noted.
With National Highways issuing severe weather warnings across England, drivers are urged to be vigilant. They warned of significant disruptions expected over the weekend as storms sweep through. This weather event serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable winters faced by Birmingham residents.
Overall, the combination of snowfall, freezing temperatures, and the transition to rain poses considerable risks for the upcoming days. Residents are encouraged to keep up-to-date with weather reports, prepare their homes, and plan for travel carefully if venturing out during the icy conditions.