The United Kingdom is gearing up for an intense winter storm expected to bring freezing temperatures and heavy snow across the country.
After days of heavy rainfall and flood warnings, a cold snap is forecasted to plunge temperatures as low as -10°C, with significant snowfall anticipated in various regions, including London, over the weekend.
According to the UK Met Office, a yellow weather warning for snow has been issued for much of England and all of Wales starting Thursday morning and continuing through the weekend.
While the timing and location of the first snowfalls remain uncertain, meteorologists predict snowfall could begin as early as Saturday evening, lasting into the early hours of Monday, according to 20Minutos.
Scotland is expected to see the most significant impact, with warnings of up to 20 centimeters of snow on Sunday and continuing until midday Monday.
Rural areas could face isolation, school closures, and potential power outages, while transportation disruptions, including delayed or canceled trains, flights, and road closures, are highly likely.
Authorities Issue Safety Alerts
The NHS has urged vulnerable residents, particularly the elderly and those with health conditions, to stay indoors during the night and early mornings.
Citizens are advised to stock up on essentials and remain cautious of icy conditions that could lead to slips and falls.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan has activated the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) to provide shelter for the homeless, while the UK Health Security Agency has issued a six-day amber cold health alert across England, warning of significant impacts on healthcare services.
Officials anticipate an increase in mortality rates, particularly among the elderly and vulnerable groups.
Travel Chaos and Precautions
Winter conditions have already caused travel disruptions in Scotland, where landslides and flooding from heavy rains have halted services on several rail lines.
Officials warn that further interruptions are likely as the storm intensifies.
This marks the first snow warning for London since March 2023, though uncertainty remains about whether the capital will experience snowfall this weekend.
Previous forecasts show London received measurable snow as recently as December 2022, but current predictions suggest conditions may not materialize.
