Britons are preparing for a severe wintry onslaught after the Met Office issued a significant weather warning for snow and ice across parts of the UK. The national forecaster has alerted the public to potential travel chaos caused by heavy snowfall and powerful winds.
Warning Details and Forecast Accumulations
The yellow weather warning comes into force at 6am on New Year's Day, Wednesday 1 January, primarily for parts of Scotland. It is scheduled to remain active until 11.59pm on Thursday 2 January. Forecasters predict that frequent and heavy snow showers will lead to considerable disruption.
The Met Office has indicated that many areas could see between 10-20cm of snow accumulating. On higher ground, particularly above 200 metres, the situation is more severe, with the potential for 30cm or more of snow to build up over the period.
Gale Force Winds and Travel Chaos
Compounding the hazard from snowfall are predictions of gale force northerly winds. These strong gusts are expected to cause significant drifting of the settled snow, creating major hazards on roads and railway lines.
The combination is likely to severely impact travel networks. The Met Office warns of difficult driving conditions with reduced visibility, and probable delays or cancellations to rail and air services. Initial accumulations will focus on higher routes, but snow will build to lower levels by Thursday evening, with 2-5cm (locally 10cm) expected by Friday morning.
Public Health Alert Issued Alongside Weather Warning
This severe weather event coincides with a cold health alert from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). The agency has issued two amber cold weather alerts for the North East and North West of England, effective until 12pm on 5 January. The rest of England is under a yellow alert.
An amber alert signifies that the cold conditions are likely to have a notable impact on health and social care services. The UKHSA specifically warned of a potential rise in deaths among vulnerable individuals, including those aged 65 and over or people with existing health conditions. Officials have urged the public to check on elderly neighbours and relatives during the cold spell.
