UK Braces for Snow, Ice, and Sub-Zero Temperatures

The Met Office has issued a warning for a chilly period across the UK this week, forecasting temperatures to fall as low as -7°C. A high-pressure system moving from the south-east is expected to trigger a noticeable drop in temperature on Friday, potentially bringing a light dusting of snow in certain areas. According to forecast models, around 60mm of snow could start accumulating near Southampton and along the south-eastern Welsh coast early Friday evening, with the snowfall continuing into the early hours of Saturday. The wintry conditions are projected to spread further westward to regions including Birmingham, Oxford, Bristol, and Devon by late Friday.

Met Office spokesman Stephen Dixon noted that parts of rural Scotland might also experience overnight lows of -7°C on Friday, with sub-zero readings predicted across the southern parts of the UK. Over the weekend, some areas in Wales might see temperatures dip to -4°C. Despite this cold spell, daytime temperatures are expected to be just below the typical February average of around 7°C on Saturday and Sunday. Dixon described the change as a return to more normal February temperatures, even though a brief period of snow could occur, particularly affecting higher ground in Wales where icy patches may become a hazard.

Additionally, a cold easterly wind is anticipated to sweep across the country at the end of the week, increasing the likelihood of snow, ice formation, and low temperatures. The Met Office also expects this cold airflow to persist into mid-February, particularly impacting regions in southern England. In light of these conditions, the UK Health Security Agency has activated yellow cold health alerts for parts of the North East, North West, Yorkshire and the Humber, and the South-east, urging heightened care for vulnerable individuals.

Emma Rubach, head of health advice at the lung charity Asthma + Lung UK, has cautioned those with respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The sharp drop in temperatures might lead to symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and difficulty in breathing due to the cold, dry air narrowing the airways. Rubach also warned that these conditions can irritate the respiratory system further and weaken the immune system, making it harder for individuals to fight off infections like colds and the flu.