Schools May Close and Elderly at Risk as Met Office Warns of -10°C Temperatures Across Britain
Britain is set to endure an intense cold snap this weekend, with temperatures plunging as low as -10°C (14°F) and heavy snow forecast to blanket much of the country. Forecasters warn that the severe weather could cut off rural communities, disrupt schools, and paralyze travel infrastructure.
The Met Office has issued a 45-hour yellow weather warning, effective from midday Saturday through 9 a.m. Monday, as a powerful Arctic system moves in. The UK Health Security Agency has also activated a yellow cold health alert, citing risks to vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with preexisting health conditions.
Temperatures are set to begin dropping sharply on Thursday, with Scotland bearing the brunt of the freeze. Parts of the Highlands could see lows of -10°C, while major cities like Glasgow, Birmingham, Manchester, and even London may record temperatures between -5°C (23°F) and -7°C (19°F). Snow is expected to arrive in northern Scotland by Thursday, accompanied by icy conditions in northern England. By Saturday, widespread snowfall is predicted, with accumulations of 5 centimeters (2 inches) across the Midlands, Wales, and northern England, and up to 30 centimeters (12 inches) in higher elevations, particularly in the Pennines.
The Met Office has cautioned that heavy snow could cause power outages, disrupt mobile networks, and isolate rural residents. Forecaster Tom Morgan explained that the evolving nature of the storm system could lead to frequent updates to weather warnings, urging people to monitor conditions closely. “It’s definitely going to start off as snow in many places,” Morgan said. “But how quickly it melts into rain will vary, particularly in southern England. If you’ve got travel plans on Sunday or Monday, stay tuned into the forecast.”
The UK Health Security Agency has echoed these concerns, warning of “significant impacts” on health and social care services. Officials predict an increase in cold-related illnesses and fatalities and are advising the public to check on vulnerable neighbors and relatives.
The country is already grappling with the aftermath of heavy rains that have battered the north of England, causing widespread flooding. Greater Manchester declared a major incident on Wednesday after roads were submerged, vehicles stranded, and hundreds of residents evacuated. Mountain rescue teams and fire services were deployed to assist local authorities. Parts of England saw nearly 100 millimeters (4 inches) of rain in 48 hours—nearly a month’s worth—leading to flooding that disrupted homes, businesses, and transportation. Major airports, including Gatwick and Manchester, experienced delays and cancellations, leaving holiday travelers stranded.
The Environment Agency issued more than 60 flood warnings and 87 alerts on Wednesday night. River levels in northern England are expected to remain dangerously high through Thursday. Ben Lukey, flood duty manager at the Environment Agency, emphasized the risks. “Environment Agency teams will be on the ground, operating flood defenses and supporting affected communities. We urge people to stay away from swollen rivers and avoid driving through floodwater, as just 30 centimeters [1 foot] of flowing water can move a car.”
The severe weather has already taken a toll on New Year’s festivities. Edinburgh’s iconic Hogmanay street party and fireworks display were canceled due to safety concerns, with similar disruptions affecting events across the UK. As Britain braces for a weekend of bitter cold and heavy snow, officials are urging residents to prepare for potential disruptions and prioritize safety. The combination of freezing temperatures and lingering floodwaters underscores the challenges of navigating a turbulent start to the new year.
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