The UK is facing severe travel disruption as heavy snow and freezing rain continue to batter the country, forcing airports to shut runways, roads to close, and power outages to impact thousands of homes.
Airport Closures and Flight Cancellations
Both Manchester and Liverpool airports have closed their runways this morning due to the severe weather conditions. The airports announced the shutdown on social media, advising passengers to check with airlines for updates.
Meanwhile, Birmingham Airport has managed to reopen its runway after intensive snow-clearing efforts, though delays and cancellations remain a concern. Bristol Airport also reopened around 11 p.m. last night, but residual delays are expected throughout the morning as aircraft remain out of position.
Roads Shut and Travel Warnings in Place
National Highways has warned of up to 25cm (10 inches) of snow, particularly affecting northern England, Wales, and the Midlands. Key road closures include:
- A628 Woodhead Pass (Greater Manchester to South Yorkshire) – Closed overnight.
- A66 in County Durham and Cumbria – Shut between the M6 and A1M due to severe snowfall.
- M62 in Greater Manchester – Multiple accidents reported due to snow and ice, causing significant disruption.
- A303 in Wiltshire – Closed in both directions due to heavy snowfall.
The Met Office has issued amber weather warnings for these areas, warning of continued snow and freezing rain, which could create treacherous black ice on untreated roads.
Severe Rail and Power Disruptions
Rail services have also been severely affected, with National Rail Enquiries confirming that lines between Inverness and Dingwall in Scotland remain closed due to flooding and landslips. Train services in northern Scotland are also facing major delays.
The National Grid is working to restore power after widespread outages in the Midlands, South West England, and South Wales. Cities including Birmingham, Bristol, and Cardiff have reported electricity failures, leaving many homes without power.
Nationwide Weather Conditions
Residents in Newcastle, Gateshead, and Bradford woke up to a winter wonderland this morning, with deep snow covering roads, buildings, and landmarks such as the Angel of the North.
Elsewhere, heavy rainfall in Devon has triggered flood warnings, with the River Taw and River Torridge at risk of breaching.
Health and Safety Warnings Issued
With treacherous conditions persisting, the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board has urged people to avoid unnecessary travel, particularly in the early morning when frost is thick and roads are icy.
Meanwhile, Wye Valley NHS Trust in Herefordshire has advised residents to stock up on food and medication and reduce drafts in their homes to stay warm.
Looking Ahead
The Met Office has warned that conditions will remain hazardous throughout the day, with further snowfall expected in the north before milder temperatures bring rain in the south.
Commuters and travelers are advised to check for updates before setting off, as delays, cancellations, and road closures remain widespread.
