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UK Snow Alert: Icy Roads and Travel Chaos Expected
10 Jan
Summary
- Up to 5cm of snow likely at low levels, with 10cm possible.
- Higher elevations could see 30cm of snow with strong winds.
- Met Office warns of travel delays, power cuts, and icy surfaces.
A yellow snow and ice warning has been issued across parts of the UK, with forecasters predicting varying snowfall amounts depending on elevation and precipitation intensity. Low-lying areas may receive 2-5cm of snow, possibly reaching 10cm locally. Higher ground, particularly above 200 metres, could experience 10-20cm, with isolated accumulations of up to 30cm on exposed hills and Scotland's highest regions.
Strong southerly winds are expected to contribute to snow drifting, exacerbating icy conditions across affected areas. As the weather system moves eastward through the afternoon, a transition to rain, sleet, and snow is anticipated, leading to significant variations in conditions even over short distances. This mixed precipitation poses a challenge for accurate forecasting and safe travel.
The Met Office is alerting the public to the high likelihood of widespread disruption, including substantial travel delays and the potential for power cuts. Residents are strongly advised to exercise caution on icy surfaces and to prepare for possible power outages by gathering essential items such as torches, batteries, and mobile phone power banks.
