Britons are advised to prepare necessary supplies as significant snowfall is expected to hit various parts of the UK. The Met Office has issued warnings for heavy snow showers affecting 79 areas, with temperatures potentially dropping as low as -12C in some regions as the new year approaches. Additional weather alerts for snow and ice have been issued as a cold Arctic front moves in.
The warnings are in effect from 6am tomorrow until midnight on Sunday, cautioning about potential vehicle stranding, icy surface injuries, power outages, and the risk of isolated rural communities. Areas covered include England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, urging people to gather essential items such as torches, batteries, and mobile phone chargers in case of power failures.
The first warning, starting at 6am on New Year’s Day, particularly targets Scotland, where up to 30cm of snow may accumulate in higher elevations and 10cm in lower areas. Similarly, Northern Ireland faces a snow warning from midnight to 10am on Friday, with up to 2cm of snow expected mainly in the northern regions following rain and sleet.
Another warning encompasses parts of England and Wales from midnight to midday on Friday, predicting up to 5cm of snow on elevated terrain. Travel disruptions are anticipated as the snow showers move southeastward across various regions, including London and Birmingham.
On January 3, continued snowfall is projected for northern Scotland with another warning in place until midnight on January 4. High ground areas could see up to 30cm of snow accumulation, posing risks of drifting snow and temporary blizzard conditions due to strong winds. Lightning near showers is also highlighted as an additional hazard.
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