Storm Pedro Hammers UK with Rain and Snow — But A Warm-Up Is Coming!
Storm Pedro is drenching southern England and dumping snow on the hills, but brighter, warmer weather is just around the corner.
Weather Woes: Rain and Snow to Lash UK
The UK faces more wet and wintry weather as Storm Pedro sweeps in from France. The worst of the snow will hit the hills, while southern England battles heavy rain under a yellow warning.
The Met Office warns of a “small chance” of disruption from flooding, snow, and strong winds. Flights and trains could be cancelled, and road conditions tricky for drivers.
- Heavy rain is forecast from Cornwall to Kent, with some areas expected to see up to 30mm, and Dartmoor could get as much as 50mm.
- Snowfall warnings cover hills in Wales, the West Midlands, and parts of Northern Ireland, where winds could reach 50-55mph.
- A separate yellow snow warning runs from 4pm Wednesday to 6am Thursday for the West Midlands and Wales.
The Tide Is Turning: Mild Weather Set to Hit
Sky News meteorologist Dr Chris England explains the jet stream’s recent southerly position has brought cold air from northern Europe. But he promises that will soon shift northwards.
“It will move north over the next few days, with a much milder Atlantic flow developing,” said Dr England. “The rain and snow will mostly clear tomorrow, with milder air following. Expect more rain on Friday.”
By the weekend, temperatures could climb into the low-to-mid teens Celsius. “There will be further spells of wind and rain but most of us will certainly see an uplift of temperatures as we go into the weekend,” said senior Met Office meteorologist Craig Snell.
Cold Alert and Health Risks
A cold weather health alert is in place across much of England until Friday evening. The UK Health Security Agency warns vulnerable people face a greater risk to life and increased healthcare demand.
“The cold weather poses a serious risk, especially to vulnerable groups,” the agency stated, citing over 2,500 cold-related deaths in England during last winter, mostly linked to a January cold snap.
Storm Pedro Hits Europe Hard
While the UK braces for Pedro’s tail end, Spain and Portugal face severe weather too. Spanish forecasters predict snowstorms and 75mph winds. Meanwhile, Germany and western France are battling flooding that’s submerged homes and hampered transport networks.
