Hundreds of schools across the UK remain closed, and travel chaos continues as the nation battles a severe cold snap, with weather warnings in effect for snow and ice. The closure of over 150 schools and nurseries in Scotland highlights the disruption, as icy roads and heavy snowfall make conditions hazardous.
Transport services have been heavily impacted, with Manchester Airport temporarily shutting its runways due to significant snow accumulation. “Our runways are temporarily closed due to significant levels of snow, as our teams work hard to clear them as quickly as possible,” the airport announced on X. Meanwhile, Stagecoach confirmed multiple service cancellations in Orkney, Inverness, and Aviemore.
Weather warnings stretch across Northern Ireland, Wales, and England, with snow and ice advisories in place until late Thursday. Deputy chief forecaster Christoph Almond warned of another bitterly cold night, with temperatures possibly plunging to –±15°C or lower in rural areas of Scotland and northern England. “Thursday will see another cold night, with potentially the lowest temperatures of the Winter so far,” he noted.
The Met Office advises caution for those venturing outdoors, suggesting early departures and the use of well-gripped footwear to prevent slips and falls. Sleet and snow showers are expected to continue, particularly in northwest Scotland and the Northern and Western Isles, with further accumulations of up to 15 cm in higher regions.
Travelers face ongoing disruptions, with road, rail, and air routes affected. Aberdeen Airport resumed operations after a morning suspension due to de-icing challenges. The airport acknowledged passenger frustrations but assured that efforts were underway to minimize further delays.
As snowstorms sweep through, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) maintains an amber cold weather alert until Sunday. The Met Office warns of icy stretches on untreated surfaces, urging drivers to take extra care.
Residents and authorities alike brace for what could be one of the coldest spells this winter, with a gradual shift to milder conditions anticipated by the weekend. “We have been stuck under the influence of northerly winds, dragging bitterly cold Arctic air,” forecasters explained. “Come Friday, high pressure will build, cutting off the northerly flow and bringing drier, settled weather.”
The cold snap has already brought significant snowfall, with Loch Glascarnoch recording 20 cm. More snow and ice are expected, prolonging travel disruptions and school closures. The Met Office continues to monitor the situation, providing updates as conditions evolve.
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