Midlands Braces for 17-Hour Snowfall: Full List of Affected Towns
The Met Office has triggered yellow weather warnings for two Midlands counties, predicting a significant 17-hour snowfall event on Tuesday, January 27. The alerts are set to be in effect from midnight through to 5pm, covering Derbyshire and Staffordshire.
Towns at Risk in Staffordshire
In Staffordshire, the warning places several key towns on high alert for potential snow accumulation. These include Stafford, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Tamworth, Burton upon Trent, Cannock, and Leek. Additionally, areas within Stoke-on-Trent such as Hanley, Stoke, Burslem, Tunstall, Longton, and Fenton could also experience a light dusting of snow, according to the latest forecasts.
Derbyshire Locations Under Threat
Meanwhile, in Derbyshire, towns like Matlock and Buxton are highlighted as being at particular risk. The maps and charts released by the Met Office also indicate that Bakewell, Ashbourne, and Wirksworth may be affected. Industrial hubs such as Belper, Glossop, and Swadlincote are similarly under threat from the impending snowfall.
Broader Weather Context and Expert Insight
Helen Willetts, Lead Weather Presenter for BBC Weather, provided context on the broader weather patterns influencing this event. She noted, "Storm Chandra is hitting hot on the heels of Goretti and Ingrid, bringing more soaking rains with little time between for the water to flow away and the rivers fully recover." This continuous rainfall significantly heightens the flood risk across the region.
Willetts further explained that strong winds from previous storms have already battered parts of the UK this month, particularly in south-west England. As a result, many structures may have been weakened, with trees and power lines left vulnerable to further damage.
Forecast for the Rest of the Week
The unsettled weather is expected to persist throughout the week, with further spells of wet and windy conditions forecast. Wednesday is predicted to offer the best day for most areas, with dry and occasionally bright conditions in the east, although rain and cloud will likely linger in the west.
A BBC forecast summary outlines the immediate outlook: "Tonight, outbreaks of heavy rain and downpours will move into the south and west. Hills of northern England and further north will see snow, while eastern areas will escape drier. Windy for all." Looking ahead to Tuesday, it adds, "Heavy rain will push north and east tomorrow with heavy hill snow in the north. In the afternoon, turning drier with some transient brightness in the south. Very windy with gales in the west."
Residents in the affected Midlands towns are advised to stay updated with the latest weather alerts and prepare for potential travel disruptions and hazardous conditions.
