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Met Office Issues Widespread Snow and Ice Warnings as UK Braces for Sharp Freeze

Drivers are told to carry winter essentials as subzero temperatures raise the risk of disruption from fresh snowfall.

Overview

  • Yellow warnings are in force across Scotland and northern England today, with alerts extending to the southwest, Wales and the Midlands on Wednesday and lingering into late Thursday in parts of northeast and East Yorkshire.
  • Forecasters report typical accumulations of 2–5 cm, with 15–25 cm possible on the North York Moors, and temperatures could dip to around -6C as showers feed inland from the North Sea.
  • The RAC expects breakdowns to run about 10% above normal for the time of year and urges drivers to check older car batteries, slow down in icy conditions and allow longer stopping distances.
  • The Met Office advises motorists to pack warm clothing, an ice scraper and an in‑car phone charger, with additional items such as a blanket, torch, food and water recommended for delays.
  • Practical guidance includes placing cardboard between windscreen wipers and the glass to prevent freezing and planning extra charging stops for EVs, while the UKHSA has issued amber cold-health alerts for northern regions.