The UK is preparing for a significant cold snap, with forecasts predicting snowfall across various regions as temperatures dip below zero. The Met Office warns of potential disruptions as icy conditions advance from the east, driven by easterly winds coming from Scandinavia. This weather pattern spells trouble for many, with light snow expected to affect areas from North Wales to the south coast.
According to BBC weatherman Derek Brockway, temperatures plummeted to -5°C at Bala, Gwynedd, last night, reflecting the onset of this chilly front. 'Easterly winds at this time of the year are always going to be cold,' added Aidan McGivern from the Met Office. Though these conditions will be less severe than the infamous 'Beast from the East' of 2018, meteorologists stress the importance of staying informed. 'High pressure is set to move in, bringing along with it easterly winds, low temperatures and increasing risk of wintry hazards like snow and ice,' pointed out Chief Meteorologist Frank Saunders.
The impending cold snap is expected to hit the UK over the weekend of February 8-9, with initial snowfall forecasted to occur at about 3 am on Saturday. Southern England and the Midlands may see up to 5 cm of snow per hour, affecting counties including Devon, Somerset, and Dorset. Meanwhile, Wales is predicted to experience similar conditions, with snow sweeping from north to south across the country.
On the same day, Scotland is likely to be the hardest hit, with some areas anticipating up to 5 cm of snow accumulation. Areas around Manchester and Newcastle could see up to 3 cm of snow, presenting challenges for motorists and local travel.
Currently, the Met Office has issued yellow cold health alerts across regions including the northeast and southeast of England. These alerts, which are set to last from 9 am on Friday until 9 am on Tuesday, indicate potential health risks associated with cold weather, particularly for vulnerable populations. The UK Health Security Agency has warned about increased healthcare demands due to cold-related conditions.
Forecasters have indicated the cold air coming from Scandinavia will result not just in snow, but also frost, making the chilly conditions feel even harsher. 'Temperatures are expected to drop to as low as -7°C,' reported McGivern, advising residents about the significant temperature shift expected this weekend.
For those hoping for a quick reprieve, early forecasts suggest this cold front could linger. Long-term predictions from the Met Office indicate continued below-average temperatures well beyond the weekend. According to their outlook, 'breezy winds and increased cloud amounts are expected to exacerbate the cold feel, with temperatures often below average.' There is even the possibility of additional wintry precipitation following the initial cold snap, especially as conditions may result in overnight frosts and icy conditions.
By Saturday morning, snowy scenes might greet residents across many parts of the UK. According to weather maps released by WXCharts, a significant coverage of snow is expected, with only remote coastal areas possibly escaping the worst of it. Frank Saunders cautioned, 'Despite what looks like pleasant weather now, brace for colder temperatures coming this weekend.' This winter weather is already leading to preparations for increased outreach to vulnerable communities who may suffer the most during this cold period.
Areas such as Gloucestershire are particularly cautious as early rain could transition to snow and sleet on the hills. According to BBC Weather, local forecasts suggest isolated rain showers early on Saturday could take on snow as temperatures drop.
With varying impacts across the country, the northern regions are likely to enjoy clearer skies compared to the cloudy south, which could make all the difference for those hoping to avoid the icy grip of winter. The forecast exhibits this division well, with the north remaining primarily dry and the south poised to battle the cold moisture arriving from the eastern front.
Local governments and health agencies have urged citizens to stay updated on weather alerts and stay prepared for any necessary precautions. Across social media, residents are sharing their own preparations and precautions to combat the expected weather challenges.
Residents across the UK are left wondering how this cold snap will play out, and whether it will be as severe as those faced previously. The quick turn from milder weather to these icy conditions serves as another reminder of how unpredictable UK weather can be.
Overall, experts maintain cautious optimism, encouraging the public to plan accordingly as they navigate the upcoming snowy weekend. Despite the ups and downs of the forecast, communities are uniting to address the needs of the vulnerable and share information about staying warm and safe during this cold snap.