The Met Office has escalated weather warnings to amber level as Britain braces for its first significant cold snap of the season, with temperatures potentially plunging to -10°C and up to 25cm of snow expected in some regions.
Amber Warning Issued for North East and Yorkshire
Meteorologists have issued an amber weather warning for snow covering parts of North East England and Yorkshire, valid from 5am to 9pm on Thursday. The alert warns of significant snow accumulations that are likely to cause substantial disruption to travel and daily life.
Forecasters predict that by Thursday evening, higher ground in the North York Moors and Yorkshire Wolds could see 15-25cm of snow accumulation, with gusty winds creating occasional blizzard conditions. The Met Office specifically warned that areas above 100m elevation are most at risk.
Widespread Yellow Warnings Across UK
Beyond the amber alert, multiple yellow weather warnings for snow and ice have been issued across the country, stretching from northern Scotland to the south coast of England. These warnings remain in effect through much of the week, with the coldest conditions expected on Wednesday and Thursday.
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."
He added that wintry showers will particularly affect areas exposed to northerly winds, including Northern Ireland, southwest Wales, southwest England, northeast England and across the northern half of Scotland.
Travel Disruption and Safety Advice
The Met Office is warning the public to prepare for travel delays, hazardous pavements, and possible power cuts. Rural communities face the additional risk of becoming temporarily cut off, while public transport services may experience cancellations.
National Highways and the Met Office have issued crucial driving advice for those who must travel:
- Use dipped headlights and accelerate gently using low revs
- Start in second gear to prevent wheel slip
- Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles
- Use a low gear when going downhill and avoid braking unless necessary
- Steer into skids and keep both hands on the wheel
Authorities are urging drivers to check travel conditions before journeys and keep essential items such as food, water, and torches in their vehicles.
Health Alerts and Community Support
The UK Health Security Agency has issued an amber Cold-Health Alert for Yorkshire & Humber, North West, and North East regions, with yellow alerts covering the rest of England until Saturday morning.
Dr Agostinho Sousa from UKHSA emphasised: "This is the first prolonged cold spell of the season, and it is therefore vital to check in on friends, family, and neighbours who are most vulnerable."
Age Scotland has echoed these concerns, noting that elderly and vulnerable people face increased risks of loneliness and isolation during cold weather, and has encouraged communities to support neighbours with practical help like clearing paths and collecting essentials.
As the Arctic air maintains its grip, forecasters indicate that conditions should become drier and milder by Friday, offering some respite from the wintry conditions that are set to dominate the early part of the week.
