The Met Office has issued a series of yellow weather warnings for snow and ice across the UK this week, as a blast of freezing air from Siberia sweeps across the Arctic Ocean.
Arctic Air Mass Descends on the UK
Meteorologists confirm that a significant cold snap is set to grip the nation, with the frigid air originating from Siberia in Russia. This region is notorious for its harsh winters, and by Wednesday, parts of the UK will be under the influence of this same Arctic airmass. Alex Burkill, a Met Office meteorologist, explained to the PA news agency that the cold air is travelling from Siberia and crossing the Arctic ocean before reaching British shores.
Regional Impacts and Weather Warnings
While yellow warnings for ice and snow are active for parts of Scotland and northern England from Tuesday, November 18 until Thursday, November 20, the West Midlands is also poised to feel the bite. The region can expect a mainly dry Tuesday morning, with isolated showers developing later. The afternoon brings a greater chance of showers or longer spells of rain, with winds making it feel particularly chilly.
However, the most pronounced cold is forecast for Wednesday to Friday. Deputy Chief Forecaster Tom Crabtree stated, "Wednesday to Friday will be the coldest part of the week, and this period has the greatest potential for impactful weather." Residents in the West Midlands should prepare for a notable wind chill initially, followed by overnight frost and ice. Temperatures could plunge as low as -10°C, with the strong northerly wind making it feel even colder.
Potential for Travel Disruption
The focus will be particularly strong on Scotland, where an area of rain arriving early Tuesday morning is expected to turn to snow as it moves inland. Snow is likely over high ground, with accumulations of two to five centimetres possible above 150 metres and five to 10 centimetres above 400 metres. Met Office Chief Forecaster Paul Gundersen warned, "This period of snow could bring some disruption to travel and infrastructure across higher parts of Scotland."