09 Mar 2023 | 01:41 AM UTC
UK: Adverse winter weather forecast across much of the country through at least March 10
Heavy snowfall and ice forecast across most of the UK through at least March 10. Hazardous travel conditions likely.
Event
Adverse winter weather conditions are forecast across much of the UK through at least March 10. Snow is forecast to develop over northern England early March 9 before slowly easing early March 10. Residual impacts from snowfall are expected to persist through the morning of March 10. Around 10-20 cm (4-8 inches) of snow is likely across the country, with 30-40 cm (12-16 inches) of snow possible in some areas. Strong easterly winds could lead to blizzards and drifting snow. The UK Met Office, in association with the UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA), has issued an amber cold weather action alert (level 3 on a four-tier scale) across England through 09:00 March 13.
As of early March 9, the UK Met Office has issued the following weather warnings across the country through March 10:
Amber snow warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Parts of western East Midlands, southwestern North East England, eastern North West England, eastern West Midlands, and western Yorkshire and Humber regions.
Yellow snow and ice warnings: across most of the rest of the country.
Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.
Due to the adverse weather, flights at Bristol Airport (BRS) were temporarily suspended March 8, affecting at least 27 flights. As of the evening of March 8, the airport is open and operational. Further flight disruptions are possible due to the ongoing adverse weather and as airlines work to clear backlogs. Southeastern has warned of possible train disruptions due to snow. Authorities closed more than 100 schools in southern Wales March 8 due to snow. The cold conditions are putting pressure on the country's energy infrastructure.
In addition to the wintry precipitation, strong wind gusts could lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow. Sporadic power outages are likely throughout affected areas.
Transport
The winter weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions in areas under snow and ice warnings over the coming days. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Difficult and potentially dangerous driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roadways in the affected states as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities could close stretches of highway if driving conditions become too hazardous. Gusty winds may threaten to topple high-profile vehicles throughout the affected area. Flight delays and cancellations are likely due to ground stops and deicing operations at airports in regions where heavy snow and/or extreme cold temperatures are forecast.
Advice
Monitor local media for updated weather information. Verify road conditions before driving in areas where heavy snowfall is forecast. Allow extra time to reach destinations in these areas and carry an emergency kit and warm clothes if driving is necessary, especially on secondary or rural routes that could become impassable. Plan accordingly for delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through affected areas. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
