January 15, 2024
As bitter Arctic winds grip the United Kingdom, the nation braces for the coldest night of the year, with fears of up to 20cm of snowfall in certain regions, Daily Mail reported.
The mercury is expected to plunge to -10°C in parts of the Scottish Highlands between Monday and Tuesday, enveloping nearly all of Britain in sub-zero temperatures.
Forecasts indicate the likelihood of travel chaos as freezing Arctic air brings "disruptive snow and ice" throughout the night.
Commuters may wake up to snow-covered landscapes on Monday morning, with warnings extending throughout the week.
Gale force winds up to 75mph are anticipated, accompanied by temperatures as low as -4°C in Scotland.
The UK Health Security Agency issued a warning for people to stay safe in the freezing weather. Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Chris Bulmer highlighted the focus of snow showers, primarily affecting northern Scotland, while also reaching coasts exposed to northerly winds.
Snow and ice warnings are in place for Scotland, northern England, parts of Wales, and the West Midlands from Tuesday. Up to 20cm of snow is anticipated in some areas, potentially causing disruptions. Earlier today, wild swimmers struggled to break the ice on a frozen Avon Lagoon in West Lothian.
The Met Office warns of a glancing blow from a North Atlantic low-pressure system, covering vast regions of Scotland and northern England in 5cm of snow by Tuesday night.
Yellow weather warnings for snow, ice, and high winds have been issued for these areas, along with Northern Ireland and Wales.
As cold air from the Arctic prevails, southern regions remain at a "low risk" of snow, with meteorologists predicting a gradual southward movement of wintry weather throughout the week.
The aftermath of Storm Henk and its estimated £150 million in insured losses continues to impact communities, with PwC noting the possibility of further rain and flooding.