The UK is braced for a severe winter onslaught, with forecasters warning that an incoming 'snow bomb' will be worse than initially expected. The Met Office has now indicated that some regions could be hammered by up to 12 inches (30cm) of snow in the coming days, prompting an urgent weather warning.
Met Office Issues Urgent Snow and Ice Warning
A yellow weather warning for snow and ice has been activated by the Met Office for parts of Scotland. It is in force from 6am on New Year's Day (1 January) until midnight on 2 January. The forecaster warns that showers will turn increasingly to snow through Thursday, driven by a strong northerly wind that could reach gale force in some areas.
Met Office forecaster Dan Stroud stated: “We’re losing this sort of settled but chilly conditions, and bringing in something a little bit more showery with more wintry hazards in the forecast, particularly for the north of the country.”
Expected Snow Accumulations and Travel Disruption
Initial accumulations are expected on higher routes, but the Met Office cautions that snow will build to lower levels by Thursday evening. By Friday morning, many areas could see 2 to 5cm of lying snow, with some localised spots receiving up to 10cm.
The situation is forecast to be most severe at higher altitudes:
- Above 200 metres, accumulations of 10-20cm are likely.
- On the highest routes and hills, 30cm or more may build up over the period.
The Met Office also highlighted that significant drifting of snow is probable due to the accompanying strong winds, which will exacerbate travel difficulties and potential isolation for some communities.
Public Health Warning Issued for Vulnerable
Alongside the travel chaos, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has raised significant health concerns. The cold snap is expected to impact younger people and will likely increase demand on health services across the regions.
The agency warned that temperatures inside critical buildings like hospitals and care homes could drop below recommended levels. It also noted the challenge of keeping indoor temperatures at the advised minimum of 18°C, raising the risk for vulnerable individuals.
Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, urged the public to take action: “As the colder weather sets in it is vital to check in on friends, family and neighbours that are most vulnerable. The forecasted temperatures can have a serious impact on the health of some people, leading to increased risk of heart attacks, strokes and chest infections, particularly for individuals over the age of 65 and those with pre-existing health conditions.”
Residents in affected areas are advised to stay updated with the latest Met Office forecasts, plan essential journeys carefully, and heed the advice of health officials to look out for those at risk during this period of extreme winter weather.
