This Thursday, multiple regions in the UK experienced significant snowfall as forecasters alerted residents to an impending storm over the weekend. The harsh winter weather has prompted a series of yellow weather warnings across various areas, raising concerns about travel safety and infrastructure disruptions.
A yellow weather warning for snow and icy conditions is currently in effect for much of northern and western Scotland until midday. In addition, parts of south-west England will remain under a similar warning until 15:00 GMT.
As schools grapple with the challenging conditions, over 60 schools in the Highlands and 30 in north Wales have closed their doors. In Devon and Cornwall, approximately 100 schools are either fully or partially closed, or are opening later due to the inclement weather.
The situation is compounded by Storm Bert, the second named storm of the season, which is expected to bring heavy snowfall, rain, and strong winds to various parts of the UK on Saturday. Wind gusts could reach up to 70 mph (112.7 km/h) in some regions.
The Automobile Association (AA) has issued advisories urging motorists to stay updated on weather forecasts before embarking on journeys, emphasizing the need for “extreme caution” while driving.
Local police departments have reported an uptick in calls related to traffic collisions caused by poor conditions. Train services have also faced cancellations as heavy snow blankets affected areas.
Snowfall began as light rain over Dartmoor and Exmoor early Thursday morning but intensified throughout the day, impacting even lower elevations. Regions such as the New Forest and South Downs also saw accumulating snow.
As southern England begins to clear from this bout of wintry weather, northern Scotland is expected to experience ongoing heavy snow into Friday morning. Additionally, wintry showers are forecasted for north Wales and parts of north-west England later Thursday night.
Temperatures plunged to -10°C in Tyndrum, Scotland, on Wednesday night, marking it as England’s coldest night of autumn thus far. Northern Ireland recorded a low of -3.9°C at Katesbridge during the same period. With expectations of another drop in temperatures Thursday night, widespread frost and icy conditions will persist on untreated surfaces.
The RAC reported a notable increase in breakdowns attributed primarily to battery failures during these frigid conditions. As more winter weather looms ahead, residents are advised to remain vigilant and prepared for continued disruptions.
As Storm Bert approaches, communities throughout the UK must brace for potential challenges while staying informed about weather developments over the coming days.
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