Snow and ice warning issued for South West with travel disruption expected
South West residents urged to prepare for delays amid yellow warning for ice
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for ice across the South West of England this morning, Friday 2nd January, which will remain in place until 10am.
Wintry weather is forecast to continue across the UK, with travel delays likely as snow and ice move southeastwards. The warning for ice across the South West comes alongside other yellow weather warnings for snow and ice in parts of England and Wales.
The Met Office expects snow accumulations of up to 2cm in some areas, with 5cm possible on higher ground. Motorists are advised to prepare for hazardous driving conditions, particularly after heavy snowfall caused problems for drivers in Scotland earlier this week.
What residents should expect
According to the Met Office, the ongoing cold spell is "likely" to persist into the weekend and beyond. This could lead to further warnings being issued, as temperatures remain below seasonal averages and snow showers continue in places.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has also extended its weather-related warnings for England until 10am on 6th January. These alerts point to potential impacts on health and social care services, with older people and those with serious health conditions at increased risk.
A Met Office spokesperson said: "We expect this cold spell to persist into the weekend and on into next week, with further warnings possible as temperatures remain well below average and snow showers continue in places."
Health advice
Dr Paul Coleman, consultant in health protection at the UKHSA, warned about the health risks of prolonged exposure to low temperatures, highlighting cold-related health issues such as heart attacks, strokes, and chest infections.
"It is therefore really important, as the colder weather sets in, to check in on friends, family and neighbours that are most vulnerable," Dr Coleman said.
Currently, the Met Office warns that icy conditions may cause longer journey times for drivers, bus passengers, and train users.
Motorists are urged to plan ahead for their journeys, particularly during icy conditions, and to consider whether trips can be postponed. Chief Superintendent Scott McCarren, head of road policing at Police Scotland, said: "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."
Anyone travelling should allow extra time, prepare for delays, and follow road closures put in place for public safety.