The Met Office has issued fresh yellow weather warnings for snow and ice across large swathes of the UK, threatening widespread travel disruption from Thursday evening into Friday morning.
The alerts take effect from 6pm on Thursday, 29th February, lasting until 10am on Friday, 1st March. Affected regions include much of Scotland, Northern Ireland, northern England, and parts of Wales. Forecasters predict 2-5cm of snow at lower levels, with accumulations potentially reaching 10cm over higher ground in the Scottish Highlands and Pennines.
Widespread ice poses the primary threat as temperatures plummet overnight. Untreated surfaces will become treacherous, increasing the risk of slips and falls whilst making driving conditions extremely hazardous. The Met Office has advised the public to take extra care and allow additional time for journeys.
In England, warnings cover areas north of The Wash, spanning the North West, North East, and Yorkshire and Humber regions. Scotland faces extensive warnings across most of its mainland and islands, whilst Northern Ireland sits under a blanket warning for ice and snow. Parts of North Wales are included, with particular concern for elevated routes.
Commuters should check local travel updates before setting out on Thursday evening and Friday morning. Drivers must ensure vehicles are winter-ready, checking tyre tread and screenwash levels whilst carrying emergency kits. Pedestrians should wear appropriate footwear and exercise extreme caution on potentially icy pavements and roads.