Multiple amber weather warnings for snow and ice are in place across north-west England, Yorkshire, the Midlands, London, the South East, and east of England from 4pm on Saturday until 9am on Sunday. The warnings have led to significant travel disruption, including the cancellation of over 70 flights to and from Heathrow Airport.
British Airways services to New York and Chicago were among the affected flights, alongside numerous short-haul routes. Highways England has issued a Severe Weather Warning for snow in the North East and East Midlands, advising motorists to avoid trans-Pennine roads and consider whether journeys are essential.
A Highways England spokesman said: “Road users in the North East and East Midlands are being advised to check the weather forecast and road conditions before they travel today as snow has been forecast. We have issued a Severe Weather Alert for snow. Road users are advised to take extra care, allow plenty of extra time, and consider whether your journey is absolutely necessary.”
The cold snap, dubbed the “mini beast from the east,” has brought bitterly cold temperatures and gusty winds. A yellow warning for snow and ice covers nearly all of Britain for the entire day. Met Office meteorologist Alex Burkhill said: “It will be bitterly cold with some snow for many places over the weekend. There are some very strong winds, meaning it could feel as low as minus 7 or minus 8 for some people.”
Sunday is expected to see further snow, particularly in the South West, where up to 10 inches (25cm) could fall on higher ground. However, the cold weather is forecast to be short-lived, with temperatures returning to average by Tuesday. Meteorologist Martin Bowles noted that while the weekend’s weather could be called a “mini beast from the east,” the impact is not expected to be as severe as previous events.
