Severe winter weather has gripped the UK with amber snow warnings in force across northern Scotland and yellow alerts extending across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The Met Office warns of up to 40cm of snow on higher ground, blizzard conditions, and potential power cuts as temperatures plunge to -5C in some areas.
The cold snap has already caused widespread disruption. Multiple roads are closed in Scotland, including the A93 Braemar-Glenshee and A939 Tomintoul-Cockbridge, after vehicles became stuck on ice. Aberdeen Airport experienced flight cancellations, with services to Amsterdam and Dublin grounded. In Birmingham, 15 bus routes were diverted as streets turned into "ice rinks."
Police Scotland's Chief Superintendent Scott McCarren urged caution: «Our advice is to plan ahead and consider if your journey is really necessary during the bad weather or if it can be delayed until conditions improve.» He warned drivers not to breach road closures, emphasizing that such decisions are made for public safety.
Extended health warnings
The UK Health Security Agency has extended an amber cold health alert for England until January 9, warning of significant impacts on health and social care services. The alert indicates a 60-89% chance of medium impact, with temperatures expected to remain at 2C or below for extended periods.
Scotland's Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop said: «Some very challenging weather and freezing temperatures are being forecast for the next few days and into the weekend.» She urged people to check with transport operators before traveling and monitor Traffic Scotland updates.
More snow forecast
The cold spell shows no signs of easing. Met Office chief forecaster Neil Armstrong stated: «It looks like this cold spell could last well into next week and wintry hazards will continue with more weather warnings likely.»
Weather forecasters predict 55 areas across the UK could face a second significant snowfall next week, with some regions potentially receiving up to 30cm of additional snow. Low-lying areas could see 2-5cm, while higher ground above 200m may experience 15-30cm.
Travel chaos continues
Aberdeen Airport's airfield remains operational, but teams are continuously clearing snow and de-icing. An AGS Airports spokesperson said: «We would advise passengers to check the status of their flight with their airline and to take extra care when travelling to the airport.»
Birmingham City Council deployed gritters across all routes from 5pm, with footway treatments scheduled from 4am. West Midlands Police issued warnings about car theft, urging drivers not to leave vehicles running unattended while defrosting.
The Met Office advises households to prepare emergency supplies including torches, batteries, candles, and warm clothing in case they become cut off. The NHS has also issued guidance on preventing falls on ice, recommending people "waddle like a penguin" by bending knees slightly and angling feet outward.
Weather forecasters warn bands of rain moving in from the Atlantic will encounter cold air entrenched over the UK, potentially bringing further snowfall to central and eastern areas. The outlook remains uncertain beyond next weekend, though conditions are expected to stay colder than average.
Note: This article was created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
