Snow for many parts of the UK
Author: Press Office
15:14 (UTC) on Mon 5 Feb 2018
As cold air takes hold across the UK, many parts will see at least a little snow through the week.
Cold air either from Northern Europe, as at present, or from Canada later on, will cover the UK this week, bringing low temperatures. With the low temperatures, further snow is likely in places, the next batch as a front moves eastwards, bumping into the cold air and leading to some mostly light snowfalls on Tuesday morning. The south east of England is less likely to see snow as the front weakens as it crosses the country, but parts of eastern England may see a short spell of snow on Tuesday night.
As the front continues to move away a mix of sunshine and showers will move in to northern and western areas, with the showers falling as a mixture of rain, hail, sleet and snow. Rain is more likely near coasts but a few centimetres of snow in some inland parts is possible. Tuesday night sees the risk of ice on untreated surfaces. Yellow severe weather warnings are in place for snow and ice in large parts of the UK.
Chief forecaster Frank Saunders said: “We’re in for a cold week ahead with freezing conditions overnight and a little snow for many parts of the UK at some point. On Tuesday night we could see temperatures as low as -11°C. There are a number of national severe weather warnings in place and we would urge everyone to stay up to date with the latest forecast.”
Dr Angie Bone, of Public Health England’s Extreme Events team, said: “In events like this it’s possible that some people who are not in the best of health will stay at home, rather than risk venturing out in cold and icy conditions, and this can lead to feeling more isolated than usual.
“That’s why as this colder period continues we should all check in on those we know, whether they’re friends, family or neighbours, who may be at risk, and offer to lend a helping hand. Do they need shopping or a prescription collecting? Can they get to GP or hospital appointments? Do they just need some company?
“It can be all too easy for those of us who are fit and well and able to cope with the cold - but it’s really important to remember that it can leave some people feeling a bit cut off.”
The cold weather is expected to remain for the foreseeable future. However, although there will be some snow at times this week, it is worth bearing in mind that for most people amounts will be relatively small and for northern and central areas, will be mostly less than seen either side of Christmas.
Whatever weather we experience over the next few days you can make sure that you and those around you are prepared for winter weather and can cope with its impacts. You’ll always find the most up to date information on our forecast pages, Twitter and Facebook, as well as our mobile app.