Ice warning after coldest winter night of the season
PARTS of Britain were yesterday bracing for teeth-chattering lows of -10C as forecasters predicted it would be the coldest night of the winter season.
Up to 5in of snow blanketed Scotland as it bore the brunt of the bitter chill with images from the Highlands showing gritters clearing the highways.
Overnight temperatures were also set to fall below freezing across most of the UK – including Cornwall and Dorset which were forecast to plunge to -2C. Yellow weather warnings remained in place for much of western England and Wales and motorists were urged to take care on potentially icy roads.
The Met Office said the icy conditions may also cause disruption for cyclists and warned pedestrians to watch out for slippery surfaces.
Meteorologist Simon Partridge said: “There’s potential that we could see the coldest night of winter so far on Monday night going into this morning. It depends if we have clear skies over snow for long enough. This leads to cold temperatures, and we’ll certainly have two cold days.
“Sleet and snow showers are forecast which will bring icy patches to low ground and snow to higher ground,” he added.
He said a breeze would ramp up the wind-chill factor but today’s temperatures will reach around 2C (35.6F) – about average for this time of year.
Mr Partridge said the wintry weather is set to be a “short, sharp cold spell” and milder weather will move in tomorrow.
Wintry showers will become more confined to the North of the country leaving it mostly dry and bright elsewhere.
However, by Thursday there is a risk of further rain and brisk winds.
Severe winter weather and subzero temperatures can cause havoc on the roads creating potentially deadly driving conditions.
A spokesman for the RAC said: “Wintry roads can be deadly and you should only drive if it’s absolutely essential. If you do head out, make sure you plan your journey in advance, checking the latest traffic news and weather forecasts so you can avoid the worst-hit areas.”
Public Health England advised people to heat their homes to at least 18C (64F) and keep in touch with vulnerable elderly neighbours.
A spokesman for the agency said: “Below 18C and the risk of strokes, heart attacks and chest infections increase, so heating homes to at least this temperature is important to stay well.”