The Met Office has escalated its weather alerts by issuing a fresh yellow warning for snow and ice, specifically targeting 19 areas across England and Wales. This new advisory is set to come into effect from 5am on Thursday, February 5, and will remain active until midnight, spanning a total of 19 hours.
Widespread Impact and Travel Disruptions
Forecasters are cautioning that the combination of melting snow from previous days and new precipitation could lead to significant travel chaos. As any snowfall from Wednesday washes away, it is expected to leave behind standing water and puddles, creating hazardous driving conditions. The Met Office strongly advises motorists to check road conditions and public transport timetables before embarking on journeys, and to amend travel plans if necessary to avoid delays.
Flood Risk and Safety Precautions
In addition to the snow warning, there is a heightened risk of flooding in affected regions. The Met Office recommends that residents in the listed areas check whether their properties are vulnerable to flooding. If so, they should consider preparing a comprehensive flood plan and assembling an emergency flood kit to ensure safety and readiness.
Detailed Forecast from Met Office Experts
Aiden McGivern, a meteorologist from the Met Office, provided further insight into the expected weather patterns. He noted, "Northern Ireland will see a bit of rain arrive and England will see a south east wind as the night goes on, especially on eastern facing hills, with snow over the peaks and of course the wind will be keeping widespread frost at bay."
McGivern added, "It will be a chilly start on Thursday - it will be wet in the south west and push a band of rain, or at least two bands of rain, from the south and it will maintain the unsettled flavour. A yellow warning in place - initial bursts dive off briefly before more rain during the evening rush hour. 10 to 20mm or 30mm in some places. On saturated ground that could cause issues."
Full List of Affected Areas
The yellow warning encompasses the following 19 areas in England and Wales, where residents and travellers should exercise particular caution:
- Hampshire
- Isle of Wight
- Portsmouth
- Southampton
- West Sussex
- Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole
- Cornwall
- Devon
- Dorset
- Plymouth
- Somerset
- Torbay
- Wiltshire
- Blaenau Gwent
- Caerphilly
- Merthyr Tydfil
- Monmouthshire
- Powys
- Rhondda Cynon Taf
- Torfaen
- Herefordshire
This warning is part of a broader set of alerts, with separate advisories also in force for northern Scotland, indicating widespread unsettled weather across the UK. The public is urged to stay updated with the latest forecasts and heed all safety advice from authorities.
