Severe weather conditions are set to grip the UK this weekend as Storm Bert brings heavy rain, high winds, and significant snowfall. Multiple warnings from the Met Office highlight potential disruptions, with impacts ranging from travel chaos to flood risks.
Relentless Snow and Ice Grip the UK
Large swathes of the UK are under yellow and amber warnings for snow and ice. The Met Office predicts up to 40 cm of snow in northern Scotland, while parts of England, Wales, and Northern Ireland face icy roads and sub-zero temperatures. Icy patches and snowfall are expected to make travel hazardous, particularly on untreated surfaces.
- Drivers are advised to de-ice vehicles fully and carry essentials like warm clothing and emergency kits.
- Schools in several regions, including Scotland and southwest England, are closed due to hazardous conditions.
Rural communities in northern Scotland could face isolation due to heavy snow, with further risks of power outages and road closures. Temperatures are already plunging, with lows of -7.5°C recorded earlier this week in Cumbria.
Storm Bert: A “Weather Bomb” Threatens the Weekend
Storm Bert, the second named storm of the season, is forecast to hit the UK this weekend, bringing 70 mph winds and torrential rain. Coastal regions in Scotland, Wales, and England are under a yellow warning for wind, while regions such as Devon, Cornwall, and parts of Wales brace for up to 150 mm of rain.
The rapid thaw of snow combined with heavy rainfall raises the likelihood of flooding in already saturated areas. Low-pressure systems associated with Storm Bert are expected to exacerbate the risks, potentially stranding travelers and cutting off some communities.
#StormBert has been named and is forecast to bring heavy rain, strong winds and disruptive snow to parts of the UK through the weekend #WeatherAware ⚠️ pic.twitter.com/Yh9LyEAIBo
— Met Office (@metoffice) November 21, 2024
The Week Ahead: Travel Turmoil and Health Alerts
Travel disruptions are anticipated across the UK. Roads in affected regions are likely to become impassable, and public transport services face delays or cancellations. More than 100 schools have already closed due to hazardous conditions, with more closures expected.
Health warnings have also been issued. The UK Health Security Agency has activated an amber cold weather alert, urging people to check on vulnerable neighbors, especially the elderly and those with health conditions. The freezing conditions and strong winds could exacerbate health risks, including hypothermia.
Meteorologists predict that the unsettled weather will persist into next week. Further snow and rain are likely, although temperatures may rise temporarily. Motorists are urged to plan their journeys carefully, have essential supplies ready and keep up to date with local forecasts.
The Met Office advises residents in affected areas to remain vigilant and follow safety guidelines to minimize risks during the extreme weather event.
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