Greater Manchester is bracing itself for a prolonged and intense bout of snowfall, with a 21-hour amber warning issued by the Met Office. The severe weather alert affects several boroughs, including Bolton, Bury, Oldham, Rochdale, and Wigan, where residents are warned to prepare for significant disruption.
Forecasters predict lower-lying areas could see up to 10cm of snow, while higher ground, particularly across the Pennines, may experience accumulations of between 20-30cm. This level of snowfall is expected to have a substantial impact on infrastructure, with potential road closures, delays to public transport services, and power outages in more exposed or rural areas.
The cold snap is being driven by a low-pressure system interacting with cold air from the east, creating ideal conditions for widespread snow. Local authorities are mobilising resources, including gritting teams, to mitigate the impact on essential services and transport routes, but the scale of the expected snow means some disruption is inevitable.
Commuters face potential difficulties on their journeys, while schools may consider closures depending on local conditions. Businesses might also experience reduced footfall and operational challenges. The public is urged to monitor local news and Met Office updates for the latest information and to postpone non-essential travel during the warning period. Temperatures will remain low even after the snow subsides, with a continued risk of ice.
While other parts of the UK are experiencing colder conditions and warnings for snow and ice, the amber warning specifically highlights the significant risk for Greater Manchester's densely populated areas. The extended duration of the warning underscores the Met Office's concern about the sustained period of heavy precipitation and its potential impact on local communities.