Greggs has confirmed extended closures across its UK stores due to severe winter weather warnings issued by the Met Office. The bakery chain's decision comes as heavy snowfall, ice, and strong winds cripple travel and public safety in several regions.
The Met Office has issued yellow and amber warnings for significant parts of the country, with areas including the North West, North East, Yorkshire and the Humber, and the Midlands bracing for snowfall exceeding 10cm. Overnight temperatures are expected to plummet to as low as -5°C, making road conditions treacherous. Wind speeds could reach 30-40 mph in exposed areas, leading to drifting snow.
Scotland is bearing the brunt of the severe weather, with amber warnings for heavy snow in place for central and southern regions, including the Highlands, Grampian, and Strathclyde. Accumulations of 15-20cm are possible, with some higher ground potentially seeing over 30cm. Temperatures will remain below freezing throughout the day, with wind chills making it feel significantly colder.
Northern Ireland is also facing yellow warnings for snow and ice, particularly in County Antrim and County Down, where snowfall of 5-10cm is expected, and temperatures are hovering around 0°C. In Wales, yellow warnings cover much of the country, particularly the higher ground of Snowdonia and the Brecon Beacons, where 5-10cm of snow is likely.
Transport networks across the affected regions are severely disrupted, with many roads becoming impassable, leading to school closures and delays to public transport services. Commuters are advised to check local travel updates before making journeys.
The extended closures by Greggs are a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of both staff and customers. Other businesses and public services are adjusting operations in response to the warnings. The public is urged to exercise extreme caution, dress warmly, and avoid non-essential travel in affected areas.
Practical advice includes ensuring homes are adequately heated, checking on vulnerable neighbours, and having emergency supplies readily available.
The Met Office forecasts these conditions will persist for 24-48 hours, with a gradual easing anticipated towards the end of the week. However, icy conditions may remain hazardous even after snowfall subsides, particularly during colder nights.