Weather: Brits are waking up to snow, ice, fog and major travel disruptions
Snow has blanketed parts of the UK today as temperatures are expected to plummet to as low as -10C.
A yellow weather warning for snow, ice and fog is in effect in England, Wales and Scotland until noon today.
Two more will start later today – one for the north of Scotland for 24 hours from 12pm and one for London and part of South East England from Sunday 6pm to Monday 9am.
There is also a small chance of rural communities being left without power – along with the possibility of blackouts and cellular coverage being impacted.
The Met Office has urged people to prepare for the extreme conditions that are already causing significant travel disruption.
Manchester Airport was forced to temporarily close its runways yesterday morning due to “heavy snowfall”.
Meanwhile, the RAC and North West Motorway Police issued warnings against driving in wintry conditions following several serious road accidents.
Met Office Chief Meteorologist Steve Willington said: “It will remain cold, with daytime temperatures remaining just a few degrees above freezing for the coming days and overnight temperatures falling to -10C or below in isolated spots.
“While these temperatures are below average, they are not unusual for this time of year.
“There is still a risk that we could see freezing fog in places, particularly in southern England, particularly on Sunday and Monday mornings.
“And there’s also a small risk of a band of sleet or snow moving into the extreme southeast on Sunday.
“If that happens, it could potentially cause disruption, especially around Monday rush hour.”
A Level 3 cold weather alert has been issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) covering the whole of England and is currently in effect until Friday.
The agency is urging people to keep an eye out for friends and family who are vulnerable in the cold.
dr Agostinho Sousa said: “Cold weather can have serious health consequences and the elderly and those with heart or lung conditions may be particularly at risk.
“If you have a pre-existing medical condition, you should heat your home to a temperature that is comfortable for you.
“In rooms that you mainly use, such as the living room or bedroom, try to heat them to at least 18°C if possible.
“Keep your bedroom windows closed at night. Wearing multiple layers of clothing will keep you warmer than one heavier layer.”
The weather remains cold with some sunny spells through Thursday, although there will be wintry showers, especially near the north coast.
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https://metro.co.uk/2022/12/11/weather-brits-wake-up-to-snow-ice-fog-and-major-travel-disruptions-17916439/ Weather: Brits are waking up to snow, ice, fog and major travel disruptions