An Arctic weather front is set to bring widespread snow and ice across the UK this Thursday, leaving authorities on high alert. According to the Met Office, amber and yellow warnings have been issued for parts of Scotland, northern England, and Wales, with the risk of dangerous travel disruptions and health concerns due to the cold. Snowfall is expected to cause challenges for both commuters and vulnerable populations.
Widespread Snow and Ice Impacting Travel
The Met Office has issued an amber warning for heavy snow in parts of North East England, particularly around the North Yorkshire Moors, where snow accumulation could reach up to 25cm in higher elevations. This alert is in place from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM on Thursday, and the conditions are expected to create dangerous travel disruptions. Strong winds may lead to blizzard-like conditions, making driving conditions treacherous. The 29 areas at risk include :
- Angus
- Perth and Kinross
- Aberdeen
- Aberdeenshire
- Moray
- Na h-Eileanan Siar
- Highland
- Orkney Islands
- Shetland Islands
- Argyll and Bute
- Darlington
- Durham
- Gateshead
- Hartlepool
- Middlesbrough
- Newcastle upon Tyne
- North Tyneside
- Northumberland
- Redcar and Cleveland
- South Tyneside
- Stockton-on-Tees
- Sunderland
- East Riding of Yorkshire
- Kingston upon Hull
- North Yorkshire
- Carmarthenshire
- Ceredigion
- Pembrokeshire
- Swansea
Travel services could be significantly impacted, with disruptions to buses, trains, and flights likely. Some communities may even become cut off by snowdrifts, with authorities urging drivers to avoid non-essential travel. The Met Office also noted that power outages are possible, with the potential to disrupt mobile phone coverage and other services.
Although the snow will primarily affect higher altitudes, significant accumulations are possible at lower levels as well, especially in northern Scotland. Snow showers are also expected across Wales, Devon, and Cornwall, with conditions likely to worsen overnight and into Thursday. In addition to snow, ice remains a major concern, particularly on untreated roads and pavements.
Health Warnings Amid Freezing Conditions
As temperatures plummet, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued cold weather alerts for several regions, including northern England and the Midlands. The risk of cold-related illnesses and even fatalities is heightened, particularly among vulnerable groups such as the elderly, young children, and those with pre-existing health conditions.
The freezing temperatures are expected to continue through Thursday night, with lows reaching -12°C in rural areas of Scotland. The combination of cold and snow will increase the risk of frostbite, hypothermia, and falls. Health authorities are advising the public to take precautions, including dressing warmly and ensuring that vulnerable individuals are closely monitored.
In addition to the immediate dangers of cold weather, the UKHSA has highlighted that the impact of prolonged cold spells can strain health and social care services. Extra resources may be needed to manage increased demand, and health services may see a rise in patients suffering from cold-related conditions.
