The Met Office has issued a three-day snow warning for England, covering most of the country, as the UK gears up for a cold snap in the first week of 2025. The warning area spans all of Wales, southern Scotland, and nearly all of England except for parts of the southern and eastern coasts. This alert will be in effect from 12 pm on Saturday until 9 am on Monday, with travel delays and power cuts expected in the Midlands, Wales, and northern England, where snowfall could range from 5cm to 30cm.
Major Weather Warnings Across UK
Additionally, a fresh ice warning has been issued for northern England, Northern Ireland, northern Wales, and parts of Scotland, lasting until 10 am on Thursday. Northern Scotland is also under a yellow warning for snow and ice until the same time period, while the wind warning in southern parts of the UK will end at 3 pm on Wednesday. Moreover, there are currently 178 flood warnings across the UK, with Manchester experiencing significant flooding after a weather warning for rain was lifted.
Manchester Declares Major Incident
Amid the flooding in Manchester, a major incident has been declared by Greater Manchester Police, with areas such as Bolton, Didsbury, Harpurhey, Stalybridge, Stockport, and Wigan being the hardest hit. Emergency services are working tirelessly to assist those affected by the flooding as the city navigates the challenging weather conditions.
Flight Cancellations at Heathrow
On New Year’s Day, London Heathrow Airport faced 36 flight cancellations due to a reduction in arrival flow rates caused by adverse weather conditions. British Airways had to cancel multiple European flights, while other airlines like Swiss, Lufthansa, and Air France also experienced disruptions. The affected passengers are being assisted by airport staff to ensure minimal inconvenience.
In the midst of these challenges, it’s important to stay informed and prepared for any weather-related disruptions that may occur. Remember to check local updates and advisories to safeguard yourself and your loved ones during this period of inclement weather. Stay safe and stay warm!
