UK Weather: Met Office Warns of Snow and Ice as Cold Snap Continues

The UK has been hit by snow and ice, causing travel disruption and power cuts in some areas. The Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings for snow and ice across swathes of the country, with residents told to watch out for potentially "hazardous conditions."

Health officials have also issued alerts, warning of effects on the NHS.

Snow and ice affect roads and railways

(Photo : Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images)

Snow and ice have made driving conditions difficult in many parts of the UK, especially in the north-east of England and Scotland.

Drivers have been warned to take extra care and avoid unnecessary journeys. Some roads have been closed due to accidents or snowdrifts, while others have been reduced to one lane.

Motorists have also been advised to check their tires, batteries, and windscreen wipers before setting off.

Rail services have also been affected by the wintry weather, with delays and cancellations reported on some routes.

Network Rail said it had deployed "snow ploughs, de-icing trains and heaters" to keep the tracks clear.

However, some trains have been unable to run due to frozen points or overhead wires. Passengers have been urged to check their travel plans before leaving home.

Power cuts and school closures

The snow and ice have also caused power cuts in some areas, leaving thousands of homes without electricity.

Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks said it had restored power to more than 20,000 customers, but around 2,000 were still affected.

The company said it had mobilised more than 400 engineers and support staff to deal with the situation.

It also advised customers to keep a torch, a warm blanket and a mobile phone charger handy in case of a power cut.

Some schools have also been closed due to the snow and ice, affecting the education of thousands of pupils.

The closures have been announced by local authorities or individual schools, depending on the local conditions.

Parents have been advised to check their school's website or social media for updates. Some schools have also switched to online learning for the day.

Also Read: UK Weather Update: Met Office Warns of Dangerous Snow, Ice Conditions; Flood Warnings Reported

Weather warnings and health alerts

The Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings for snow and ice for most of Scotland, northern England, the Midlands, East Anglia and parts of the south.

The warnings are valid until Wednesday morning, with further snow showers and icy patches expected.

The Met Office said some places could see up to 10cm of snow, especially over higher ground. It also warned of possible travel disruption, injuries from slips and falls, and power cuts.

Health officials have also issued alerts, warning of the impact of the cold weather on the NHS and vulnerable people.

Public Health England said people should look out for their neighbours, friends and family who may be at risk, especially those who are elderly, very young or have chronic health conditions.

It also advised people to keep their homes heated to at least 18C, wear warm clothes and eat hot meals.

NHS England said it had activated its winter pressures plan, which includes increasing bed capacity, cancelling non-urgent operations and deploying extra staff.

It also urged people to use the NHS 111 service or online symptom checker for advice, rather than going to A&E.

Related article: UK Weather Forecast: High Winds, Heavy Rain Expected to Unfold This Week