The UK is grappling with severe weather conditions as heavy snow, relentless rain, and plunging temperatures wreak havoc across the nation. On Monday, the Met Office issued multiple weather warnings, including widespread flooding that has led to major travel disruptions, road closures and railway delays. Airports are also struggling with closures and flight cancellations, while hundreds of schools have been forced to shut. The adverse weather has left thousands of homes and businesses without power and water, particularly in Ireland, as communities brace for further challenges in the coming days.
Northern England: Snow and Ice Chaos
Manchester Airport was forced to close its runways due to heavy snowfall, leaving airport staff scrambling to clear the tarmac. Though the runways have since reopened, delays persist, and passengers are urged to check with airlines for updates. Leeds Bradford Airport also faces significant delays due to the adverse weather.
On the roads, the A46 remains shut in both directions due to flooding in Warwickshire, while the M25 anti-clockwise is closed between Junctions 10 and 8 following a lorry collision with the central reservation.
Rail services between Derby and Nottingham are severely impacted, with flooding causing delays and cancellations. National Rail advises passengers to expect disruptions and check travel updates regularly.
Scotland: Arctic Temperatures and School Closures
Scotland experienced its coldest night of the winter, with temperatures plummeting to -13.3°C (8F) in Loch Glascarnoch. Over 80 schools in north-east Scotland, including Aberdeenshire, Moray, and Highland council areas, are closed due to snow and hazardous driving conditions.
Despite the severe weather, there are no current flood warnings or alerts in place for Scotland.
Wales: Flood Warnings Issued
National Resources Wales has issued three flood warnings and 34 flood alerts. Emergency services are actively responding to flooding incidents, particularly in Flintshire’s Oakenholt area. Commuters are advised to stay vigilant and avoid unnecessary travel.
Southern England: Heavy Rain and Milder Temperatures
While northern regions battle freezing conditions, southern England experienced milder weather overnight. St James’ Park in London recorded a balmy 11.4°C (52.5F), a stark contrast to the Arctic chill up north.
However, the cold Arctic air is expected to return, bringing widespread frosts throughout the week.
Nationwide Impact: Flood Warnings Soar
The Environment Agency has issued more than 170 flood warnings across England, with 303 flood alerts in place. The M5 in Gloucestershire remains closed due to extensive flooding, and numerous A-roads are similarly affected.
Flooding has also caused hundreds of school closures in Lancashire and Yorkshire, adding to the nationwide disruption.
Ireland: Power and Water Outages
In Ireland, tens of thousands of homes and businesses are without power and water. The Irish Electricity Supply Board reports 41,000 customers remain without electricity, and Uisce Eireann indicates similar numbers lack access to water, particularly in the south-west region.
Social Media and Public Reactions
Meteorologists and public officials are using social media to provide real-time updates and advice. “The ploughs are getting stuck, the police are getting stuck, everybody’s getting stuck – stay home,” warns Matthew Cappucci, a senior meteorologist at MyRadar.
Authorities are urging the public to plan ahead, stay updated on travel conditions, and avoid non-essential journeys.
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