The UK is set to experience a rare and potentially dangerous weather phenomenon known as freezing rain, forecasters have warned. The event is expected to hit parts of Scotland on the evening of Tuesday, February 6, and into the early hours of Wednesday, February 7.
Freezing rain occurs when liquid precipitation hits a cold surface and freezes instantly, creating a layer of clear ice. The Met Office describes it as a rare type of precipitation that can produce striking visual effects but also poses significant hazards. The weight of the ice can bring down trees and power lines, while roads and pathways can become like ice rinks, making travel extremely dangerous.
Weather maps from InMeteo show that the Scottish Highlands and Perth and Kinross will be most affected by freezing rain. Meanwhile, heavy snow is expected in other regions, including Argyll and Bute, Northumbria, Tyne and Wear, and County Durham throughout Tuesday. Earlier forecasts of over five inches of snow along a 200-mile stretch have been revised, but significant snowfall is still anticipated in these areas.
Elsewhere, rain is more likely, with up to 11mm forecast for Cumbria and parts of north Wales. However, if temperatures drop further, these regions could also experience freezing rain. A yellow weather warning for wind is in place across most of Scotland on Wednesday, adding to the challenging conditions.
