The UK is facing a combination of snow, ice, and flooding this week, raising questions about why conditions have become so severe.
With temperatures expected to plunge to as low as -16°C and weather warnings stretching across the country, understanding the factors behind this extreme weather can help prepare for what lies ahead.
A yellow weather warning for snow has been issued by the Met Office for southern England, covering areas from Kent to Cornwall and stretching up to South London.
This alert is in place from 9 am to midnight on Wednesday. Forecasters predict between 2 and 5 centimetres of snow in most areas, with as much as 10 centimetres expected on higher ground.
The reason for this significant snowfall lies in a combination of cold air sweeping in from the north and moisture in the atmosphere, creating perfect conditions for snow to form. The Met Office has warned that icy patches on untreated roads are likely to disrupt travel.
This week is set to see the coldest nights of the year. In parts of North East England and Scotland, temperatures could drop to -14°C on Wednesday night and as low as -16°C on Thursday night. Such extreme cold is the result of clear skies, a lack of cloud cover, and freezing winds moving across the UK from the Arctic.
The start of the year has brought significant flooding across England, with at least 300 properties affected since New Year’s Eve. The Environment Agency estimates that more than 41,000 properties have been protected, but heavy rainfall and melting snow have combined to exacerbate the flooding. Areas like the North West of England, Yorkshire, and the Midlands have been particularly hard hit.
Floods Minister, Emma Hardy acknowledged the widespread impact of the flooding, saying, “My sympathies go out to the people, businesses and communities impacted by the recent flooding across the country.
“I want to express my heartfelt thanks for the vital work that the Environment Agency and emergency services are doing to keep people safe. People must continue to follow their advice and sign up for flood warnings.”
The snow and ice have caused widespread disruption, closing hundreds of schools and blocking major road and rail links. Airports in Manchester, Bristol, and Liverpool have suspended flights due to the hazardous conditions.
In Leicestershire, flooding prompted a “danger-to-life” warning for the River Soar near Barrow upon Soar, although this has since been lifted.
Residents in nearby caravan parks were urged to evacuate as emergency services worked to ensure safety. Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service reported rescuing dozens of people since Monday.
As extreme weather continues to impact the UK, authorities are urging people to remain vigilant. By understanding why these conditions are occurring, communities can better prepare and stay informed about weather and flood warnings.
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