WHAT could be better than starting the New Year off with snow? The Met Office has issued an official yellow warning for snow across the southwest of England.
According to a spokesperson in the Met Office “heavy snow may cause some disruption over the weekend,” starting on Saturday, January 4 until Monday, January 6.
In certain areas, 5cm or more of snow could accumulate fairly widely with areas at higher ground the most likely to be affected.
This, accompanied by strengthening winds, may lead to drifting of lying snow.
In addition, as milder air attempts to move northwards into southern and central areas, snow may turn to a spell of freezing rain for a time, adding to the risk of ice.
If milder air can spread, any snow in southern parts of the warning area may be relatively short-lived before turning to rain.
Given the uncertainties, it is quite likely this warning area and start/end times will be refined over the coming days as confidence increases in areas most likely to be impacted.
READ MORE: Somerset RSPCA offers top tips on how to keep your pets warm in the snow
READ MORE: Met Office issues yellow warning for wind in Somerset and Devon
READ MORE: All the pictures and news as snow falls in and around Somerset
READ MORE: A Snow warning has been issued for the South West
What to expect
- There is a chance that power cuts will occur and other services, such as mobile phone coverage, may be affected.
- Some rural communities could become cut off.
- Travel delays may occur on roads with some stranded vehicles and passengers, along with delayed or cancelled rail and air travel.
How to prepare
The Avon and Somerset Police is recommending everyone stays safe this weekend.
Yellow warning of snow affecting South West England https://t.co/xswUb1cv6t pic.twitter.com/xJy3si4Mo7
— Met Office - SW England (@metofficeSWEng) January 1, 2025
Snowy weather can cause road traffic delays and make driving conditions dangerous. The Met Office recommends planning your route, checking for delays and road closures, and amending your travel plans if necessary.
Similarly, drivers should check their car before setting off and make sure they have essentials packed in their cars in the event of delays (warm clothes, food, water, a blanket, a torch, ice scraper, a warning triangle, high visibility vest, and phone charger).
“People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance. It’s easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items,” a spokesperson added.
Share