A severe cold snap is taking hold across the UK this weekend, with some regions already experiencing around 10cm of snowfall. The Met Office has issued multiple weather warnings for snow and ice, extending several yellow alerts into Monday. In northern Scotland, amber snow warnings are in effect until Saturday midday.
Blizzard conditions are expected to affect the east coast of England on Saturday and Monday. Reports from the Scottish Highlands indicate more than 8cm of snow was recorded at Loch Glascarnoch on Friday morning, with nearby Aboyne seeing approximately 9cm of lying snow.
Due to the adverse weather, several snow gates have been closed, halting traffic on key roads, including the A93 Braemar-Glenshee and A939 Tomintoul-Cockbridge. Highland Council has received reports of vehicles, including campervans, becoming stuck on icy roads in tourist areas and is advising motorists to be cautious.
The areas under amber warnings encompass Angus, Perth and Kinross, Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, Moray, and parts of the Highlands. Predictions suggest that snow accumulation could reach 10-20cm at lower levels and potentially 30-40cm on higher grounds, with wind gusts leading to temporary blizzard conditions.
The inclement weather may disrupt travel, with longer journey times expected. Delays and cancellations are likely for rail and air services, as well as potential power outages due to the extreme conditions. Chief Superintendent Scott McCarren of Police Scotland cautioned drivers against ignoring road closures, stressing that these measures are taken to ensure public safety.
Snow coverage has also blanketed parts of England, marking a wintry start to the year. A yellow weather alert for snow and ice is active across most of Wales, while the southwest of England faces similar warnings. Northern Ireland will also see yellow alerts from Friday afternoon, with snow and ice anticipated until midday on Monday.
Met Office chief meteorologist Rebekah Hicks highlighted the influence of Arctic air and brisk northerly winds gripping the UK, advising the public to stay vigilant and stay updated on forecasts as icy conditions are expected to persist into next week. She warned that daytime temperatures may struggle to stay above freezing and that overnight lows could reach severe sub-zero levels in certain areas.
The UK Health Security Agency has issued amber warnings effective until January 9, indicating likely significant impacts on health and social care services, particularly among vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions.