Met office warns of disruptive snow as arctic airmass descends, UK health security agency activates cold-health alert
As a wintry snowstorm looms over the United Kingdom, the Met Office issues an alert for “disruptive snow” with an impending arrival of an arctic airmass from Sunday. The weather maps, provided by WXCharts, offer a striking visualization of when the snow is expected to engulf the entire country, intensifying concerns for public health. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has already implemented a cold-health alert, emphasizing the potential “significant” impact on the health and social care sector.
Deputy Chief Meteorologist David Hayter highlights the northerly airflow, indicating that arctic air will blanket the UK, focusing on Northern Ireland and northern areas of Scotland initially. The initial snow risk is expected to target coastal areas in the north, including North Sea and Irish Sea coasts. However, an ongoing likelihood of disruptive snow throughout the middle to latter part of next week is anticipated, creating uncertainty about the exact timing and locations.
Hayter explains, “What we’re keeping an eye on for this disruptive snow is where exactly this milder air from the southwest bumps into the cold air that will be in place over the UK. It’s where these airmasses meet that there’s a likelihood of some substantial snow for some places.” The meteorological models show various options for the situation, and more details are expected to emerge in the coming days.
Dr. Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, underscores the importance of checking on friends, family, and neighbors. He warns that the plummeting temperatures leading into the weekend can have a serious impact on the health of those over 65 and individuals with pre-existing health conditions, increasing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and chest infections.
Weather maps from WXCharts suggest that snow could cover almost the entire country by the end of next week. Elevated regions in the Brecon Beacons and Cairngorms National Park might see up to 40cm of settled snow on the ground by January 21. The projections indicate varying amounts of snowfall across different regions, with up to 25cm in Scotland, 17cm in Wales, 8cm in the north of England, 11cm in the Midlands, and 6cm further south.
As the nation faces the prospect of a widespread snowstorm, residents are urged to stay updated on weather forecasts, adhere to safety precautions, and prepare for potentially challenging conditions on the roads and in daily life. The collaborative effort of communities and individuals is crucial in navigating through this winter weather challenge.
