UK: Adverse winter weather forecast across much of the country through at least Jan. 6 /update 3

Adverse winter weather conditions are forecast across much of the UK through at least Jan. 6. Snow and ice are expected across much of the country, as well as cold temperatures. Snowfall accumulations of 3-7 cm (1.2-2.8 inches) are forecast across much of central and northern England and Wales Jan. 4-5, with accumulations of up to 40 cm (16 inches) possible in elevated areas. Lesser accumulations of snow and ice are possible in other parts of the country and Arctic air will lead to cold temperatures nationwide. Hazardous travel conditions are likely due to slippery roads and reduced visibility caused by blowing snow.

As of Jan. 3, the UK Met Office has issued the following weather warnings across the country:

• Amber snow warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Much of northern England late Jan. 4-late Jan. 5.

• Amber snow and ice warnings: Across much of Wales and parts of central England late Jan. 4-mid Jan. 5.

• Yellow snow warnings: central and southern Scotland early Jan. 5-mid Jan. 6.

• Yellow snow and ice warnings: Across most of England and Wales not under orange snow and ice warnings mid Jan. 4-late Jan. 5.

• Yellow ice warnings: Across Scotland and parts of northwestern England, eastern and northern Northern Ireland, and northeastern Wales Jan. 3-early Jan. 4.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has also issued amber cold health alerts across England and dozens of flood warnings remain in place following recent heavy rainfall. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.

The winter weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions in affected areas 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 motorway 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 is forecast.