Weather Warnings and Snow Forecast: The UK Braces for a Significant Cold Snap
With the approach of winter following the fall period, there is a high likelihood of cold weather that’s expected to hit the UK with even a possible’snow blast’ in some regions of England, Scotland, and Wales. As weather experts have cautioned, areas comprising of Birmingham, the Lake District, and the Pennines are at great risk of having a bit of snow in the next few days, following the cold air from the north, which is a remnant of Hurricane Kirk. However, the developed forecasts do not include snowfall alone; rather, they include risks of strong winds and downpours, especially in the mountainous regions, with associated impacts expected in those areas.
Cold Air Raising Following Hurricane Kirk
Hurricane Kirk, which did not make a landfall in the UK, has however turned out most disastrous, leaving a trailing weather system that has cold air rushing towards the capital. The cold air currently over most of the UK is anticipated to result in a sharp drop in temperatures throughout the country. Snowfall is particularly expected in the northern and upland regions of England, Scotland, and Wales, as the cold air meets warm, moist air at this time of the year.
While snow is anticipated to settle in these areas, meteorologists say that it will be very light, especially at lower elevations. In Birmingham and the north of Wales, for example, snow cover may be short-lived and cause suppression of thaw instead when temperatures change.
Snow Spread in Some Specific Areas
- Birmingham: Some parts of the Midlands regional area may see some light snow but is mostly unlikely to last due to the warm and cool fluctuations of the weather. Residents ought to worry more about the high winds and the rain instead, as they pose a considerable risk, especially the rain, which creates slippery road conditions.
- Lake District: The Lake District boasts mountains and is therefore more likely to receive more snow, especially in the high areas. Those hiking or living in these regions should be on the lookout for freezing temperatures and even snow-related travel disruptions.
- Pennine: This broad rim of elevated land is likely to experience severe weather first. Above a certain altitude, snow will be borne by strong winds, accompanied by their own hazards of snow drifts, which will restrict access in several locations.
Severe Weather Warnings:What to Expect
The UK Met Office has published several forecasts of adverse weather for the upcoming winter period, including warnings of severe winds and heavy flooding rain. It is understandable that snow will be the most talked about subject, but there is more threat posed by combinations of wetness and winds of about 50–60 miles per hour in open-ground areas. These may cause flooding and vegetation destruction in some places, especially agricultural and seaside areas.
- Heavy Rain: In addition to snowfall, heavy torrential downpours are anticipated mainly in the western parts of the country. The rains may cause some flooding in most places, particularly those suffering from the previously caused weather systems.
- High Winds: The high winds will most likely compound the effects of the rain, risking stormy weather in coastal and elevated regions.
Heads Up and Caution
- Given the changing conditions of weather, it is sensible to look at the current situation objectively. People residing in areas with very high altitudes or more exposed terrain may want to brace themselves for some traveling inconveniences and even power interruptions. Here is how to ensure safety:
- Driving on Icy Roads: Sometimes, even when the snow fails to settle, the conditions may still be conducive to icy surfaces, posing a challenge to driving. Remember to pay attention to the local travel advisories and limit travel in the prohibited zones.
- Bring in Outdoor Objects: The approaching winds are likely to wreak havoc on free-standing objects like patio chairs, plant pots, and trash bins. All such items outdoors must be appropriately packed up before the storm arrives.
- Observe Weather Bulletins: You should also watch out for the weather forecasts in your community, more so if you are in a region that is more prone to heavy snowfall or flooding. The status of the storm will be communicated by the Met Office as well as other institutions.
What comes after that?
Even though the cold spell on which everyone is worried seems to be a short one, it reminds us how most autumns and winters in the UK can be very unpredictable. Cooler temperatures are expected to return after the snowfall, but there are chances that strong winds and showers may follow.
The Met Office will also keep an eye on the matter, and there are chances of issuing more weather warnings within the very near future.
