First Major Winter Cold Snap Grips Britain
The United Kingdom is bracing for its first significant cold spell of the season as the Met Office has issued an amber weather warning for snow across several regions. Temperatures have plunged dramatically, with forecasters predicting this week will be "markedly colder" than last week, bringing harsh frosts and substantial snowfall to many areas.
Where and When the Snow Will Hit
An amber weather warning remains in effect for parts of Yorkshire, including York and Scarborough, from 5am to 9pm on Thursday. Multiple yellow warnings for ice and snow have also been issued across Northern Ireland, Wales, northern England, southwestern England, and much of Scotland.
The Met Office anticipates up to 25cm of snow could settle on higher ground, particularly across the North York Moors and Yorkshire Wolds. Coastal areas have already experienced sleet and snow showers overnight, with the cold weather expected to persist until the weekend.
Potential Impacts and Travel Disruption
Forecasters have warned that rural communities face being cut off as gusty winds create "occasional blizzard conditions." The combination of snow and strong winds brings additional hazards including potential lightning strikes and significant travel disruption.
Power cuts are considered likely in the worst-affected areas, and residents are being advised to prepare for potentially difficult conditions. The UK Health Security Agency has activated amber cold weather alerts for the North East, North West, and Yorkshire and the Humber regions, with yellow alerts covering the rest of England until 8am on Saturday.
Temperatures Set to Plummet Further
The mercury dropped to -6°C overnight at Spadeadam in Cumbria, but the coldest temperatures are still ahead. The Met Office has indicated that areas with lying snow in Scotland could experience temperatures as low as -12°C on Friday.
Met Office Chief Forecaster Neil Armstrong explained: "Cold Arctic air from the north is firmly in charge of the UK's weather, bringing the first notable cold snap of this autumn and giving an early taste of winter weather."
Deputy Chief Forecaster Tom Crabtree added that Wednesday to Friday would represent the coldest part of the week, with the greatest potential for impactful weather. He emphasised that updates to current warnings remain possible and urged the public to keep up to date with the latest forecasts.
