The Met Office is urging millions of people across the UK to adopt a simple 'five-minute' rule as the first significant cold snap of the autumn brings the threat of widespread disruption from snow and ice.
Widespread Warnings for Snow and Ice
A blast of cold Arctic air has settled over the country, prompting the Met Office to issue a series of weather warnings covering large parts of the nation. The alert for ice and snow is in force for much of England, Scotland, Wales, and all of Northern Ireland from Tuesday, November 18, through to Thursday, November 20.
Experts are predicting accumulations of up to 5cm of snow in some areas, with the potential for 15-20cm on higher ground in Scotland and a staggering 15-25cm over the North York Moors and Yorkshire Wolds.
The Crucial Five-Minute Safety Rule
To help the public navigate the hazardous conditions safely, the Met Office has issued clear guidance. A spokesperson emphasised the importance of allowing extra time, stating: "Plan to leave the house at least five minutes earlier than normal."
The logic behind this simple step is powerful: "Not needing to rush reduces your risk of accidents, slips, and falls." This advice is critical for pedestrians and cyclists, who are advised to stick to main roads where pavements are more likely to have been gritted and are less slippery.
Regional Impact and Travel Advice
The cold snap will unfold over several days, with the risk intensifying on Wednesday, November 19. On Tuesday, warnings were concentrated in the north, including parts of Scotland and northern England like Carlisle.
By Wednesday, the warnings expand significantly to cover:
- Northern Ireland
- Major English cities including Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, and Nottingham
- Areas as far south as Plymouth and Truro
- Most of Wales, excluding only parts of the Isle of Anglesey and north-west Gwynedd
Met Office Chief Forecaster Neil Armstrong confirmed: "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."
For Thursday, November 20, the risk is currently lower, with alerts remaining in place for areas including Aberdeen, Inverness, Newcastle upon Tyne, Hull, Haverfordwest, Plymouth, and Truro.
The Met Office strongly recommends that everyone in affected areas stays up to date with the latest forecasts and weather warnings, checks road conditions and public transport timetables before travelling, and amends their plans if necessary to ensure safety during this period of severe weather.
