The Met Office has issued Yellow National Severe Weather Warnings for potentially disruptive snow and ice, with northern Scotland and Northern Ireland being particularly vulnerable.
Starting on Sunday, a northerly airflow will usher in the cold arctic air, leading to the likelihood of showers in some regions. The warnings cover northern Scotland for Sunday and Monday, as well as Northern Ireland for Monday. Accumulation amounts may vary, but some areas in northern Scotland could witness up to 10 centimetres of snow over the two days, with the potential for drifting snow due to strong winds.
As the brisk northerly winds continue into Monday, showers will move well inland across Northern Ireland. Initially, these showers may fall as snow over higher ground and as sleet and rain elsewhere. However, as the frigid air spreads southward, showers are expected to transition to snow at all levels throughout the day. Higher routes could see up to 5 centimetres of snow, with a few centimetres possible at lower levels.
Looking ahead to the middle of next week, the likelihood of snow increases across many parts of the UK as the cold air remains in place. On Tuesday, there’s potential for areas of snow to move inland over parts of Northern Ireland, southern Scotland, and/or northern England. Wednesday also presents a risk of snowfall across southern parts of the UK.
Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Chris Bulmer explained, “Snow showers from Sunday onwards are most likely to move inland from coasts exposed to northerly winds. The focus of snow showers will be over northern Scotland, but parts of the North Sea and Irish Sea coasts may also see some snow at times.”
The UK Health Security Agency has issued a Cold-Health Alert, emphasizing the significant health impacts the cold weather can have on individuals, particularly those over the age of 65 and those with pre-existing health conditions. Dr. Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, advised checking in on friends, family, and neighbours to ensure they are prepared for the cold weather.
With the potential for snow and icy conditions from Sunday onward, travel plans may be affected. National Network Manager at National Highways, Amy Fellows, urged motorists to take precautions, including checking their vehicles and route conditions. She recommended following the TRIP acronym, which stands for Top-up (oil, water, screen wash), Rest (rest every two hours), Inspect (inspect tires and lights), and Prepare (check your route and the weather forecast).
As the cold spell approaches, the UK is gearing up for the challenges that winter weather brings, with residents advised to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions to stay safe during this period of wintry weather.
