Freezing Night Ahead as Gritters Hit Hampshire Roads
Hampshire County Council is rolling out the gritters tonight as temperatures plummet below freezing. Expect salting on priority one routes across the North, Central, and South zones, all starting at 8 p.m. Sharp frost warnings are in place as an arctic maritime airmass bites the UK.
Chilly Tonight and Wednesday’s Cloudy Skies
Tonight will stay dry with clear spells but cloud will creep in from the north by morning. A brisk northerly wind hits Kent, while other areas face calm winds, allowing frost to settle inland by dawn. Temperatures will dip to a frosty 1°C.
Wednesday stays dry but dull, with some brighter spells in the south and west. Watch out for a lone shower along the Kent coast. A light breeze keeps things nippy, with highs struggling to hit just 6°C.
Arctic Blast to Freeze UK Through the Weekend
Thursday to Saturday promises bitter cold and widespread frost, especially overnight. Days are mostly sunny but still icy, with occasional showers turning roads slick—Saturday could be the worst for black ice. This chill shock is set to hang around into Sunday and early next week.
Wintry showers will mainly pummel coastal zones, with snow mostly sticking to higher ground. Inland areas can expect dry, frosty conditions with severe dips in temperature at times. Clouds, rain, and gusty winds may sweep southwestern regions, bringing a chance of heavy snowfall where systems collide. Overall, expect temperatures to remain well below average for this time of year.
UKHSA Issues Level 3 Cold Weather Alert
The UK Health Security Agency has raised a Level 3 Cold Weather Alert for England from Wednesday evening through Monday, December 12th. Dr Agostinho Sousa warns, “Cold weather can have serious consequences for health. Older people and those with heart or lung conditions are particularly vulnerable.”
He advises:
- Keep your home at a comfortable temperature, at least 18°C in frequently used rooms.
- Close bedroom windows at night to retain heat.
- Wear multiple layers to trap warmth effectively.
RAC Issues Winter Driving Warning
RAC spokesman Rod Dennis says many drivers will be surprised by the sudden cold after a mild autumn. His tips:
- Check tyres are properly inflated with good tread.
- Top up oil, coolant, and screen wash.
- Take a 20-minute run to boost older car batteries before freeze hits.
- Carry a fully charged phone and keep a blanket in your car for emergencies.
Stay prepared – expert advice says this wintry hit could keep the UK shivering well into next week.
