The Met Office has issued a stark warning for Britons to prepare for a significant Arctic onslaught, with a precise timeline for when the snow will start to fall and which regions will bear the brunt of the deep freeze.
The icy snap is forecast to strike with vengeance on Wednesday evening, as a bitter chill sweeps across the nation from the north. Forecasters predict the first flurries will begin around 6pm, rapidly intensifying and spreading southwards overnight.
Regions in the Firing Line
Northern Scotland and higher ground in Northern Ireland are first in line for the heaviest snowfall, with accumulations of 2-5cm expected quite widely. However, the Met Office warns that localised areas could see a staggering 10cm of snow, particularly on routes above 300 metres.
The harsh conditions are not confined to the north. By Thursday morning, the snow band is predicted to push into parts of northern England and north Wales, threatening widespread travel chaos during the morning commute.
Met Office Issues Key Warnings
Meteorologists have highlighted the significant risks accompanying this cold spell:
- Dangerous Travel: Icy patches will form quickly on untreated roads, pavements, and cycle paths, leading to treacherous conditions.
- Power Disruptions: There is a slight chance that power cuts may occur, with potential impacts on mobile phone coverage in isolated areas.
- Rural Communities: Some rural communities face a risk of becoming temporarily cut off due to the accumulation of snow.
A Met Office spokesperson stated: "The worst of the conditions are expected from 6pm Wednesday through to midday Thursday. The public is advised to check the forecast and travel advice before heading out, and to allow extra time for journeys."
Beyond the Snow: A Prolonged Deep Freeze
The snow is just one part of the story. The plunge in temperatures will see mercury levels struggling to get above freezing for many throughout Thursday, with a harsh frost expected each night. This icy grip is predicted to hold for the remainder of the week, making this one of the most significant cold spells of the winter so far.
