Bristol is bracing for bitterly cold weather and possible snowfall this weekend as the Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for snow and ice across almost all of the UK.
The weather warning is effective from midday January 4 until 11.59pm on Sunday, January 5, encompassing significant areas of the south-west, including Bristol, Devon, Bath, North East Somerset, Gloucestershire, Swindon, and Wiltshire.
According to the Met Office, there’s a staggering 90% chance of precipitation between 6pm and 8pm on Saturday evening, which could manifest as either rain or snowfall. With temperatures predicted to plunge as low as 1°C, and feeling like -3°C due to wind chill, the likelihood of snow is high.
The Met Office has warned residents to prepare for heavy snow, as well as the possibility of some freezing rain, which may lead to significant disruption over the weekend. This includes warnings about potential power cuts and the risk of poor mobile phone coverage, which might affect rural communities disproportionately.
"There is a high chance we might see some of the white stuff falling from the sky," said the Met Office, underlining the likelihood of snow arriving earlier than expected. The warning adds, "Heavy snow, and some freezing rain in places, may cause some disruption over the weekend."
Travel disruptions are already on the radar. The local authorities have cautioned about potential injuries from slips and falls on icy surfaces. They are also expecting travel delays on roads, with some vehicles possibly stranded along with passengers unable to reach their destinations. Delayed or cancelled rail and air travel are also likely, with Bristol Airport particularly impacted by adverse conditions.
The public has been urged to stay informed and cautious. With the weather turning treacherous, individuals are advised to limit their travel to necessary trips only.
For providing tips on how to stay safe during such snowy conditions, the Met Office has published safety guidance, encouraging residents to visit their official advice page.
During these challenging conditions, community engagement becomes even more important. The public is invited to share pictures of their experiences with the snow through social media, particularly on the local Facebook page dedicated to Bristol.
This weekend's winter weather serves as a reminder of the impacts seasonal changes can have on daily life, especially for those relying on travel. With the Met Office keeping close tabs on the situation, updates will continue to flow, ensuring locals remain informed as to when conditions improve. Continue to follow local news for live updates on weather and travel as the snowfall hits Bristol.