The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for West Yorkshire, specifically highlighting the area around the Halifax Ski & Snowboard Centre, as a band of severe weather moves across the region. The warning, which is in effect from late afternoon today until tomorrow morning, forecasts strong winds and heavy rainfall that could significantly impact local conditions and outdoor activities.
Gusts are expected to reach speeds of 50-60 mph in exposed areas, with localised higher speeds possible, particularly on higher ground. Alongside the strong winds, persistent heavy rain is predicted, with accumulations of 20-30mm widely expected and up to 50mm in some elevated locations over the warning period. Temperatures are forecast to remain relatively mild, hovering around 8-10 degrees Celsius, however, the wind chill factor will make it feel considerably colder.
Across the wider UK, similar conditions are anticipated in parts of Northern England and Scotland, where yellow warnings for wind and rain are also in place. Wales and Northern Ireland are expected to experience more settled, albeit cloudy, conditions for the start of the week, with temperatures ranging from 6-9 degrees Celsius. Southern England is largely predicted to avoid the worst of the weather, with scattered showers and moderate winds.
For those planning to visit the Halifax Ski & Snowboard Centre or engage in any outdoor pursuits in West Yorkshire, the Met Office advises exercising extreme caution. Members of the public are urged to secure any loose garden furniture or objects that could be blown away, and to be mindful of potential debris on roads. Travel disruption is also a possibility, with public transport services potentially facing delays or cancellations, and motorists advised to drive carefully, especially on exposed routes.
The current weather system is a result of a deep area of low pressure tracking across the Atlantic, bringing unseasonably strong winds and moisture-laden air to the UK. This type of weather pattern is not uncommon for this time of year but the intensity of the winds and rainfall warrants a warning due to the potential for localised impacts on infrastructure and daily life. The Met Office will continue to monitor the situation and update warnings as necessary.
Source: Met Office