UK Hit by Arctic Blast, Snow Warnings Issued
The UK is experiencing severe winter weather as the Met Office issues multiple amber and yellow warnings for snow and ice across the country. A powerful blast of Arctic air has caused temperatures to plunge, with parts of Wales forecast to reach a freezing -11°C.
Heavy snowfall has already covered large areas of Scotland, where up to 40cm of snow is expected in some regions. England and Wales are also likely to see snowfall ranging between 5cm and 10cm, particularly in higher and exposed areas. Strong winds accompanying the snow may lead to blizzard conditions in areas under amber warnings.
Transport disruption is already affecting roads and rail services in northern parts of the UK. The Met Office has warned of possible power cuts, stranded vehicles, and isolated communities as conditions worsen.
Yellow snow and ice warnings remain in place across much of England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, with nearly all of Scotland and the whole of Northern Ireland under alerts until Monday afternoon. Wales faces widespread ice warnings, while southern and eastern England could see heavy snow showers in the coming days.
Daytime temperatures are expected to stay in low single figures nationwide, with sub-zero conditions persisting in northern Scotland overnight. In response to the cold spell, the UK Health Security Agency has issued amber cold health alerts across England until January 9, warning of increased health risks and pressure on healthcare services.
The Met Office says bitterly cold conditions are set to continue into next week, urging the public to take precautions and stay informed.
