Up to 40cm of snow is expected in the Peak District and Pennines, with the Met Office warning of an 'exceptionally cold night' on Friday. Three amber warnings for blizzard conditions remain in place until Friday morning, covering northern England, the Midlands, north Wales and Northern Ireland.
Widespread snow is forecast across central England and Wales, following heavy snowfall that disrupted commuters on Thursday. Flight delays were reported in the East Midlands, while rail travel was affected by snow and ice, with issues expected to continue until Friday afternoon. Snow showers are also expected in Scotland and could reach Northern Ireland and south-west England by the weekend.
Met Office chief meteorologist Jason Kelly said: 'With some strong winds accompanying these snow showers, blizzard conditions are likely for a time in northern England and Wales, as well as parts of Northern Ireland. Ice will be a continuing hazard for many in the forecast period, with very low overnight temperatures likely to exacerbate continued likely travel disruption.'
The UK Health Security Agency has placed all regions of England under a level 3 cold weather alert until midnight on Thursday. Dr Agostinho Sousa, a consultant at UKHSA, warned that the cold weather could have a serious impact on health, particularly for elderly people. Age UK urged people to check on older neighbours and relatives.
Thursday's snow led to a 50% rise in breakdowns in the worst-affected areas, according to the RAC. Some drivers became stuck in snow in parts of South Yorkshire and Wales. The RAC spokesperson Rod Dennis advised drivers to think carefully before setting out and to carry an emergency breakdown kit. National Highways in the West Midlands also urged motorists to have a winter kit in their cars.
East Midlands Airport closed its runway for nearly two hours due to heavy snow, while Birmingham Airport briefly held flights while the runway was cleared. The M5 northbound near Birmingham experienced heavy congestion after a collision, with queues up to three miles long.
