Thundersnow Set to Strike the UK: Cold Snap Forces School Closures and Power Outages
The UK is bracing for severe winter conditions, including thundersnow, as an amber weather warning is now in effect. This chilling weather has prompted the closure of hundreds of schools, disrupted transportation, and led to power outages in various regions.
Impact of Thundersnow Across the UK
On Wednesday, the Met Office reported instances of thundersnow in Aberdeenshire and off the northeast coast. The phenomenon occurs when thunderstorms develop in snowy conditions, resulting in heavy snowfall.
School Closures and Travel Disruptions
- In northern Scotland, approximately 100 schools closed on Thursday.
- Wales saw school closures with 36 in Pembrokeshire, 14 in Carmarthenshire, and 7 in Ceredigion.
- North Yorkshire experienced 33 school closures, while East Yorkshire reported 8 fully closed schools.
Schools across the UK are shuttered due to heavy snowfall, particularly affecting areas experiencing the most severe weather. Additionally, rural communities face isolation as gusty winds may lead to blizzard conditions and potential lightning strikes.
Temperature Records and Snow Accumulation
The cold weather has resulted in the lowest temperatures of the season. Recent records include:
- -6.6°C at RAF Benson, Oxfordshire.
- -6.4°C in Sennybridge, Powys.
- -2.8°C at Altnahinch Filters, Co. Antrim.
- -6.4°C in Dundreggan, Inverness, Scotland.
Up to 25 cm of snow is anticipated to settle on high ground, particularly in the North York Moors, leading to significant travel disruptions and power outages.
Weather Warnings for Upcoming Days
Amber weather warnings are in place for parts of Yorkshire, including York and Scarborough, from 5 AM to 9 PM on Thursday. The Met Office issued multiple yellow warnings for ice and snow, affecting:
- Northern Ireland
- Wales
- Parts of England (both northern and southwestern regions)
- Much of Scotland
Advice for Commuters and Drivers
Commuters are advised to check travel arrangements due to expected train delays and cancellations caused by adverse weather. Motorists should also exercise caution, especially in affected North East areas, where police have recommended avoiding specific roads due to stuck vehicles.
Experts urge drivers to plan ahead, utilize main routes, and allow extra travel time during this hazardous weather.
Forecast Ahead
While temperatures are expected to rise closer to seasonal averages over the weekend, the weather will remain unsettled and cold. The onset of wetter and windier conditions is predicted, but temperatures are unlikely to reach the relatively mild levels experienced earlier in November.
