The UK is set for a bitterly cold weekend with up to 10cm of snow already settled in some areas. Yellow weather warnings for snow and ice are in place across much of the country, with the latest warnings extending into Monday. Amber snow warnings for northern Scotland remain until midday on Saturday.
Travel disruption is expected as snow and ice move south-eastwards over parts of England and Wales. A yellow warning for snow and ice covers London, Greater Manchester, and Cardiff until midday Friday, while a separate ice warning for south-west England runs until 10am. About 2cm of snow could fall in some areas, with up to 5cm on higher ground.
Heavy snowfall has already caused difficulties for motorists in the Highlands and north-east Scotland. The Met Office warned that 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.
Yellow warnings are in place for parts of the UK, including much of Northern Ireland, until midday Monday. The Met Office said heavy snow showers may merge to give longer spells of snow, with wind causing snowdrifts and temporary blizzard conditions. People have been advised to prepare for longer journey times by road and rail, with the AA estimating 20.7 million car journeys on 2 January.
The UK Health Security Agency has issued warnings across England until 10am on 6 January, warning of significant impacts on health and social care services, including a rise in deaths among vulnerable groups.
