Bitterly cold weather is expected to grip the UK over the weekend, with up to 10cm of snow already settling in some areas. Yellow weather warnings for snow and ice are in place, with the latest warnings extending into Monday. Amber snow warnings for northern Scotland remain until midday on Saturday.
Travel disruption is anticipated as snow and ice are forecast across the UK. A yellow warning for snow and ice is in effect until midday Friday for an area covering London, Greater Manchester, and Cardiff. About 2cm of snow could fall in some areas, with up to 5cm on higher ground.
Heavy snowfall caused difficulties for motorists in the Highlands and north-east Scotland on New Year’s Day, with blizzard-like conditions expected into the weekend. The Met Office warned that the amber areas in Scotland could see power cuts and stranded vehicles. At Loch Glascarnoch, more than 8cm of snow was recorded, while Aboyne had about 9cm. Forecasters warned of up to 20cm on low ground and 40cm on higher ground.
Parts of England were also covered in snow on Friday. Yellow warnings are in place for much of Northern Ireland until midday Monday. The Met Office stated that heavy snow showers may merge to give longer spells of snow, with wind causing snowdrift and temporary blizzard conditions.
The UK Health Security Agency has issued warnings across England until 10am on 6 January, indicating significant impacts on health and social care services, including a potential rise in deaths among vulnerable groups.
