The UK is currently facing ongoing snow warnings affecting many areas, with a significant impact on daily life. The Met Office has issued yellow alerts, expected to expire at 11:00 GMT, except for Scotland, where warnings extend into Tuesday night.
Heavy Snowfall Expected
Widespread heavy snow is anticipated across central and northern regions of Scotland. Residents should prepare for snow accumulation of:
- 5-10 cm in many areas
- Up to 15 cm in localized spots
The Met Office advises against driving and alerts people to potential power outages.
School Closures Across the UK
In response to the weather conditions, school closures have been widespread. More than 150 schools in Northern Ireland are closed on Tuesday. Key regions affected include:
- Aberdeenshire
- Orkney
- Shetland
- Carmarthenshire
- Neath Port Talbot
- Bridgend
Phillip McCullagh, the principal of St Patrick and St Brigid’s College in Claudy, remarked on BBC Radio Ulster that the conditions were unusually severe.
Travel Disruptions
Travel across the UK has also been significantly disrupted due to snow and ice. Notable incidents include:
- Eurostar trains unable to reach the Netherlands.
- Warnings from Network Rail Scotland about “exceptionally deep snow” hindering snow ploughs.
- LNER advising against travel between Edinburgh and Aberdeen until 14:00 GMT Tuesday.
- Temporary closure of Liverpool John Lennon Airport due to runway conditions, which has since reopened.
Cold Weather Payments Initiated
In light of the severe weather, cold weather payments have been activated for 451 postcodes. Households receiving certain benefits will automatically receive £25 if local temperatures reach 0°C or below for seven consecutive days.
Further Snow Forecast
Looking ahead, additional snowfall is expected across the UK on Thursday and Friday. The Met Office predicts snow will likely impact regions in England, Northern Ireland, and southern Scotland.
