The Midlands is braced for a bout of wintry weather as the Met Office issues a significant yellow weather warning for ice. The alert, which spans an extensive eleven hours, is set to affect fifteen counties and cities across the region.
When and Where the Warning is in Effect
The yellow weather warning for ice will be active from midnight until 11am on Wednesday, November 19. This warning covers a wide swathe of the Midlands, putting residents on alert for hazardous conditions.
The specific regions under the warning in the East Midlands are: Derby, Derbyshire, Leicester, Leicestershire, Northamptonshire, Nottingham, and Nottinghamshire. In the West Midlands, the affected areas include: Herefordshire, Shropshire, Staffordshire, Stoke-on-Trent, Telford and Wrekin, Warwickshire, Worcestershire, and the West Midlands Conurbation.
What Weather to Expect
According to forecasters, outbreaks of rain will move southwards on Tuesday night into Wednesday morning. This precipitation is expected to turn to snow on higher ground for a period. As the rain and snow clear away to the south later, skies are predicted to become clear.
This clearing is the primary cause for concern. The Met Office states that the clearer skies will allow temperatures to plummet, falling close to or below freezing. This rapid temperature drop will create a serious risk of icy patches forming on untreated surfaces.
The forecast also indicates that some temporary slushy snow deposits are possible, particularly on grassy areas. However, any significant snow accumulation is likely to be confined to communities and transport routes situated above approximately 300 metres in elevation.
Potential Impacts and Safety Advice
The icy conditions are expected to make for difficult travel and treacherous footpaths. The Met Office has warned that icy patches are likely on untreated roads, pavements and cycle paths.
This presents a direct danger to the public, with a heightened risk of injuries from slips and falls on icy surfaces. Motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians are all advised to exercise extreme caution during the warning period, especially during the Wednesday morning commute.
Residents across the fifteen affected regions should stay updated with the latest forecasts and allow extra time for any journeys.
