Weather forecasters have issued a stark warning about the risk of a rare and dangerous phenomenon known as 'freezing rain' hitting parts of the United Kingdom. This follows the passage of Storm Goretti and could create what officials describe as 'extremely hazardous' conditions for travel and daily life.
What is freezing rain and why is it so dangerous?
Unlike ordinary rain or sleet, freezing rain occurs when raindrops become 'supercooled' as they fall through a layer of cold air close to the ground. These droplets remain in liquid form until the instant they make contact with a surface, where they freeze immediately. This process forms a treacherous, transparent layer of ice on roads, pavements, vehicles, and power lines.
Met Office Chief Forecaster Rebekah Hicks explained the developing situation. "Sunday will see a disruptive spell of weather as the UK transitions into a milder air mass, marking an end to the cold spell we’ve had since the start of the year," she stated.
"Low pressure will drive milder air in from the west and where this interacts with the cold air, we’ll see notable snow accumulations in already impacted areas of Scotland." She added that parts of the Highlands could see a further 20-30cm of snow.
Which areas are most at risk?
The Met Office has highlighted specific regions expected to bear the brunt of this severe weather. An amber weather warning for snow will be active from 3am until 2pm on Sunday, January 11.
This warning covers multiple parts of Scotland, including:
- Angus
- Perth and Kinross
- Stirling
- Aberdeenshire
- Moray
- Highland
Hicks detailed the sequence of events: "This will coincide with strong winds, making Sunday an impactful day of weather. Snow will turn to rain through the day, with the possibility of freezing rain for a time which could lead to some extremely hazardous conditions with ice forming instantly on all surfaces."
Further risks and public advice
The dangers are not limited to ice. The forecasted combination of heavy rain and melting snow as temperatures rise also brings a significant risk of flooding in some areas.
Authorities are urging the public to exercise extreme caution. "With numerous severe weather warnings in place, it is important to stay up to date with the forecast as well as information from local responders and authorities," Hicks emphasised.
Residents in the affected regions are advised to reconsider any non-essential travel during the warning period, as road conditions are likely to become very dangerous with little notice. The instant icing caused by freezing rain makes it particularly perilous for drivers and pedestrians alike.
