Seven weather warnings are now in force across the UK, with the Met Office issuing its most severe amber alert for heavy snow that threatens to bring widespread disruption to northern England and parts of Scotland from Friday.
The amber warning covers the Pennines, Cumbria and Scotland's Central Belt, where 10-20cm of snow is forecast widely. Higher ground above 200 metres could see 30-40cm accumulate. Strong winds of 50-60mph over exposed coasts and hills will create blizzard conditions and dangerous snow drifts.
Six additional yellow warnings for snow, ice and wind span England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. These warn of travel delays, hazardous driving conditions and slip risks on icy surfaces. Coastal areas, particularly in Northern Ireland and western Scotland, face large waves and spray.
Public transport will face severe disruption, with rail and bus services likely cancelled or delayed. Motorists are urged to travel only if essential and prepare for treacherous conditions. Power cuts are likely, with some rural communities at risk of being cut off. Temperatures will hover around 0-3°C, feeling colder in the wind.
Authorities advise residents to secure loose garden items and check on vulnerable neighbours. Gritting lorries are deployed, but even treated roads could become impassable in heavy snow. The warnings extend through the weekend, signalling prolonged severe conditions.
England's amber warning hits the North West, Yorkshire and Humber, and parts of the North East. Yellow warnings cover much of the Midlands, East of England and South East. Scotland faces the worst conditions, with the amber alert spanning central and southern regions alongside extensive yellow warnings for the Highlands and Islands. Wales has yellow warnings for central and northern areas, whilst Northern Ireland faces wind and rain alerts with flooding risks.