The Met Office has issued a series of severe weather warnings for snow and ice set to grip much of the nation this week.
Widespread Disruption Expected
The warnings are active from Tuesday, November 18, to Thursday, November 20, with forecasters predicting significant accumulations. Meteorological maps indicate that up to 20cm (eight inches) of snow could fall in the worst-affected regions.
Scotland is expected to bear the brunt of the severe conditions, but the north and south west of England are also at considerable risk from a mixture of snow and ice alerts.
The Lucky 13 Counties
Amid the extensive warnings, a Met Office snow map highlights that only thirteen counties will be completely spared from any weather warnings tomorrow. These areas are:
- Norfolk
- Suffolk
- Greater London
- Kent
- Surrey
- Sussex
- Hampshire
- Wiltshire
- Cambridgeshire
- Lincolnshire
- Oxfordshire
- Essex
- Hertfordshire
Health Warnings and Public Advice
In response to the forecast, Dr Ron Cook, NHS 24 Executive Medical Director, has issued urgent advice for the public. He emphasised the need for extra care, particularly for vulnerable groups.
"With icy conditions expected, we urge everyone to wrap up warmly and take extra care when outside," Dr Cook stated. "Cold weather can be particularly challenging for older people, young children, and those with long-term health conditions, so please check on neighbours and loved ones."
He also recommended practical steps such as wearing sturdy footwear and allowing more time for journeys to prevent slips and falls. For those with respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD, he advised keeping medication handy and limiting time outdoors during the severe cold.
Looking Beyond the Cold Snap
The Met Office outlook offers some respite, indicating that conditions will improve by Friday. The forecast suggests it will be drier for many, with temperatures gradually turning milder.
Rain is expected to reach western parts later on Friday, with further wet and windy weather potentially crossing the country from west to east over the weekend.
A summary of the forecast for tomorrow confirms that rain and snow will clear from southern areas in the morning, followed by sunshine but also frequent wintry showers driven by a cold northerly wind, leading to snow accumulations in some places.
