The Met Office has issued a new yellow weather warning for snow affecting parts of Eastern England, signalling a wintry start to the New Year for many. The warning, which covers areas including Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, and parts of Kent, is active from early Tuesday morning, 2nd January, until late on Tuesday night.
Forecasters anticipate that between 2-5cm of snow could accumulate at lower levels, with isolated patches potentially seeing up to 10cm, particularly over higher ground. The snow is expected to fall as a band moves south-eastwards across the region, bringing with it a significant drop in temperatures, making conditions feel much colder across the UK.
The primary concern for residents within the warning area is the potential for travel disruption. Roads, particularly untreated surfaces, are likely to become slippery and hazardous, impacting commutes and other journeys. Public transport services, including buses and trains, could also face delays or cancellations. Beyond travel, there is a risk of some power cuts and other services being affected due to the adverse weather conditions.
While the immediate warning focuses on Eastern England, the broader UK is bracing for a colder period. Scotland and Northern Ireland are expected to see widespread frosty conditions, with some snow showers possible, especially in coastal areas and over higher ground. Wales will likely experience a mix of rain and sleet, transitioning to snow in elevated regions, accompanied by strong winds that could reach speeds of 30-40 mph in exposed areas. In England, outside the warned eastern regions, temperatures are forecast to hover around 0-3 degrees Celsius, with a risk of widespread ice formation overnight into Wednesday.
The Met Office advises the public to take extra care when travelling, allowing more time for journeys and checking local weather forecasts and travel updates before setting out. Pedestrians are also warned about the risk of slips and falls on icy paths. Ensuring homes are adequately heated and checking on vulnerable neighbours is also recommended during this cold snap.
This latest warning underscores a shift to more wintry conditions following a relatively mild festive period for many parts of the country. Local authorities are expected to activate their winter gritting plans to mitigate the impact on key road networks.
Source: ITVX