Snow and ice warning for one of the winter’s coldest weeks
SNOW and ice are expected for London and the South East as Britain is urged to prepare for one of coldest weeks of the winter.
Most of the population is likely to see a few flakes of snow over the coming days, with temperatures predicted to drop to 19.4F (-7C) in some areas.
The Met Office has forecast snow and ice throughout the week, with conditions likely to lead to road and rail disruption, as well as an increased risk of injury from slips, trips and falls.
Craig Snell, a Met Office forecaster, said: “It’s going to be a cold week, plenty of dry weather around, but many places will probably see some snow at some point. Probably one of our coldest weeks of this winter so far, but snowfall wise, doesn’t really look too disruptive at this stage.”
Around half an inch to an inch of snow could accumulate inland, mainly over hills above 300ft.
The temperature could drop well below freezing in sheltered parts of Scotland and spots most prone to the cold in the Midlands and Wales.
A weather warning for snow and ice was in place from 8pm last night until 10am this morning, spanning the
South East.
The Met Office said: “Some roads and railways are likely to be affected with longer journey times by road, bus and train services.”
Then, between 8pm tonight and 3pm tomorrow, there is a further chance of snow and ice for parts of the South West, the North, Northern Ireland, North Wales and Scotland, A spell of rain, sleet and increasingly snow will move east across the UK, gradually weakening across England and Wales.
Mr Snell added: “Quite a lot of the UK will see some snow as we head through tomorrow but as it ventures into the Midlands, the South West and eventually later in the day across the South East, it’s just going to be a few flakes of snow.”
Tomorrow morning is again expected to be widely below freezing, with highs of 41-42.8F (5-6C) in spots on the western coast of Wales and the South West, he added.
A further amber warning has been issued for overnight into Wednesday, as snow showers are likely to affect the west of the UK.