The weather forecast for Sussex this weekend is causing concern among local officials, as the Met Office has warned of plummeting temperatures and the risk of significant snowfall. Residents are being urged to prepare as the county braces for potential freezing conditions and icy roads.
The Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings for snow and ice, which will be active from midday on Saturday until midnight on Sunday. Overnight temperatures are expected to dip to chilling lows of -4°C, raising alarms about the dangers posed by harsh winter conditions.
East Sussex County Council has mobilized its resources, reporting it typically grits 778 miles (1,252 kilometers) of highways across the county on cold nights, ensuring major routes remain passable. Road safety officials are advising drivers to exercise care as icy patches may form, particularly on untreated roads.
Brighton & Hove City Council has echoed these concerns, recommending residents check on elderly and vulnerable neighbors during the cold snap. They have noted the significant health risks associated with drastic temperature drops, particularly for individuals aged 65 and over, among whom the cold can increase the likelihood of serious health events such as heart attacks and strokes.
"The cold weather increases the risk for those with long-standing health issues like heart or kidney disease, COPD, asthma, and diabetes," the Sussex Health & Care Integrated Care System warned. To mitigate risks, they advise keeping homes heated to at least 18°C.
With the harshness of the winter temperatures pressing down on the region, local councils have also activated Severe Weather Emergency Protocols (SWEP). These measures include opening emergency shelters for individuals experiencing homelessness. Community resources like warm libraries will remain open six days a week to offer safe spaces during the frigid weather.
BBC Weather's Nina Ridge described the temperature changes vividly: "The new year has ushered in a stark temperature drop after the mild December, plunging south-east England under the icy grip of arctic air. Friday morning registered some of the lowest temperatures recorded this winter, featuring readings such as -4.3°C from South Farnborough and -4°C from Shoreham. Saturday morning shows little promise of change, as widespread frost is expected, alongside potential freezing fog patches."
The forecast indicates snow could begin to fall starting midday on Saturday, gradually transitioning to milder conditions by Sunday. The heavier snowfalls are predicted for northern areas, with Sussex possibly experiencing transient snow before rain takes over later.
The Met Office has monitored the situation closely, warning residents about the consequences of incoming winter weather. According to their analysis, snowfall is likely to affect much of the southern UK, but areas like Brighton and nearby coastal towns may escape significant snowfall, as milder air is expected to disperse the cold before it solidifies.
The expected transient nature of snow forecasted for Sussex exemplifies the overarching weather patterns affecting northern regions, which are preparing for heavier snowfall and stricter warnings. For example, the northern Pennines might see snow accumulation reaching up to 40 cm, showcasing how varied the weather experience will be across the UK this weekend.
Local authorities have put out consistent advisories to safeguard the well-being of the community, especially for those most vulnerable to the extremes of winter weather. Health professionals recommend anyone susceptible to cold-related health issues stay informed about weather changes and prepare their homes and community networks to overcome the cold snap.
Brighton & Hove's current preparations are part of broader regional efforts to manage the crossover from winter's harshest predictions toward more temperate conditions expected next week. Meanwhile, cold fronts remain poised to return, asserting Sussex's need for readiness as forecasts show potential for frigid returns.
Whether you plan to enjoy the expected snowfall or keep warm indoors, local authorities urge residents to stay safe and vigilant this weekend as winter grips Sussex.