UK freezing temperatures : New snow warning issued as Arctic blast hits Britain

UK freezing temperatures : New snow warning issued as Arctic blast hits Britain

As an Arctic blast sweeps across Britain, the UK Meteorological Office has issued a fresh snow warning, signaling the arrival of frigid temperatures that are set to grip the nation. This wintry onslaught has already caused significant disruptions, with forecasters predicting even colder nights ahead.

Severe weather warnings and arctic conditions

The Met Office has issued a series of weather alerts, including an amber warning for snow in parts of the South West. This warning, in effect until 21:00 GMT on Wednesday, covers Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, and Somerset. Yellow snow and ice warnings have also been put in place for other regions of the UK, extending into Thursday.

Meteorologists anticipate that the upcoming nights could be the coldest of the year thus far. In areas that experienced heavy snowfall over the weekend, temperatures may plummet to an astonishing -20°C. This extreme cold snap is reminiscent of the harsh conditions experienced in February 2021, when Braemar in Aberdeenshire recorded a bone-chilling -23°C.

The severity of the situation has prompted the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) to issue an amber cold health alert for all regions of England, effective until midday on Sunday. This alert, second only to the highest level of warning, serves as an early notification to healthcare providers about the potential increase in demand for their services.

Impact on daily life and travel

The wintry weather has already caused significant disruptions across the United Kingdom. Here’s a breakdown of the major impacts:

  • School closures in England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland
  • Road closures and traffic delays, particularly in Devon and Cornwall
  • Temporary halts to flights at Liverpool, Bristol, Aberdeen, and Manchester airports
  • Flooding in various parts of England and Wales
  • Rail service interruptions, including the closure of Gathurst station near Wigan

The police in Devon and Cornwall have urged drivers to avoid non-essential travel as snow continues to fall in both counties. National Highways reported delays of over an hour on the A38, with seven miles of congestion backing onto the M5.

While most flights have resumed, operators warn that some delays are still likely. Travelers are advised to check their flight status before heading to the airport.

Flood risks and precautionary measures

As of Wednesday evening, the Environment Agency had issued over 60 flood warnings and 130 flood alerts across England. In Wales, three flood alerts were in force. However, no severe flood warnings, which indicate a danger to life or significant disruption, were in place.

The following table illustrates the current flood situation:

Warning Type England Wales
Flood Warnings 60+ 0
Flood Alerts 130 3
Severe Flood Warnings 0 0

Experts predict that flooding and related warnings will decrease in the coming days, as no significant rainfall is expected in the affected areas. Nevertheless, residents in flood-prone regions are advised to stay vigilant and follow local authorities’ guidance.

Health implications and vulnerable populations

The freezing temperatures pose a significant risk to public health, particularly for older and vulnerable individuals. Dr. Agostinho Sousa from the UKHSA emphasized the importance of checking on those at higher risk of health complications due to the cold weather.

Cold temperatures can lead to:

  1. Increased risk of heart attacks
  2. Higher likelihood of strokes
  3. Greater susceptibility to chest infections

To mitigate these risks, the government has implemented cold weather payments to help eligible individuals with their fuel bills. Since November, an estimated 11,000 people in England have received this top-up. Residents are encouraged to check their eligibility for this financial support.

As the nation braces for this intense cold spell, it’s crucial to stay informed and take necessary precautions. While the weather may put a damper on outdoor activities, it’s worth noting that sporting events like rugby matches might face postponements or challenging conditions. The resilience of the British people will undoubtedly be put to the test as they navigate through this Arctic blast.

Romuald Hart
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