An amber weather warning for snow has been issued in Scotland, coinciding with several yellow warnings across the United Kingdom for strong winds, ice, and heavy rain, all of which may cause flooding. The amber warning covers central and northeastern Scotland, extending from north of Glasgow to Aberdeen and is set to remain in effect until 2 PM on Sunday. Snow accumulations could reach up to 30 cm (12 in) in higher areas, with lower elevations anticipating 2 to 5 cm (0.7 to 3 in), according to the Met Office.
Impact of Storm Goretti
This weather alert follows a series of heavy snowfall events, accompanied by sub-zero temperatures, affecting Scotland and other UK regions. Storm Goretti, which impacted the UK on Thursday and Friday, resulted in school closures and disrupted travel. It also triggered a rare red weather warning due to winds reaching nearly 100 mph in the South West region.
Tragically, a man in his 50s was reported dead after a tree fell on his caravan in Mawgan, Helston, Cornwall, during this storm.
Forecast and Warnings
Met Office forecaster Greg Dewhurst indicated that Sunday will experience a very unsettled start, featuring heavy rain, strong winds, and ongoing snowfall. A transition from the recent cold spell to milder temperatures is expected, alongside an increased risk of flooding due to melting snow and heavy rain.
Yellow weather warnings have been issued for various severe weather conditions:
- Snow and ice: Much of Scotland, as well as the North West, North East, and West Midlands, until 3 PM on Sunday.
- Wind: Areas in Scotland and Northern Ireland, and northern England north of Newcastle, until 9 PM on Sunday.
- Rain: Warnings for northwest Scotland until 10 AM on Monday, with additional warnings in southwest Scotland and Northern Ireland until 9 PM on Sunday.
- Ice: In the East Midlands and North East, impacting Yorkshire and Lincolnshire until 11 AM on Sunday.
These warnings suggest that flooding remains a significant risk across many regions.
Looking Ahead
Despite current unsettled weather patterns, warmer temperatures are anticipated in the coming days. Plymouth is projected to reach highs of 13°C (55°F) on Sunday, and Manchester may see temperatures around 10°C (50°F), which is notably milder compared to Madrid’s forecast of 8°C (46°F).
Weather producer Dr. Chris England noted that southerly winds will lead to milder conditions, signaling the end of the cold spell. As temperatures rise, the snowfall is expected to be primarily confined to the mountains of northern Scotland by midday, transitioning into rain in most areas.
With rainfall expected to be heavy at times, combined with snow melt, localized flooding remains a serious concern.
