A severe weather warning has been issued by the Met Office for snow and ice across Wales, with freezing temperatures gripping the region. The warning, in place until 10 am on Wednesday, covers almost the entire country. As a result of the wintry conditions, hundreds of schools in north Wales were forced to close, and roads were shut to traffic. The first snowfall of the season led to chaos in many areas.
The forecast warns of the likelihood of ice forming on untreated surfaces, particularly in the evening as skies clear. Further snow showers are expected in northern parts of Wales overnight and into Wednesday morning. Accumulations of snow are anticipated, with up to 5 cm over higher ground and 1-2 cm elsewhere. The Met Office advises that roads and railways could be impacted, resulting in longer journey times. Icy patches on untreated surfaces may increase the risk of slips and falls.
Areas affected by the weather warning include Blaenau Gwent, Bridgend, Caerphilly, Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Gwynedd, Merthyr Tydfil, Monmouthshire, Neath Port Talbot, Powys, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Swansea, Torfaen, Vale of Glamorgan, and Wrexham. The Met Office Chief Meteorologist, Neil Armstrong, highlighted that cold Arctic air prevailing over the UK will continue to bring winter hazards throughout the week.
The focus of the snow and ice risk is expected to intensify overnight into Wednesday, with snow showers moving across windward coasts in the north and east, as well as drifting into Northern Ireland and Wales. The potential for over 10 cm of snow on higher ground exists, with some settling at lower levels, causing possible travel disruption. Swift ice formation on untreated surfaces poses an additional hazard.
Those in Wales are urged to stay vigilant and prepared for the adverse conditions, with the likelihood of disrupted transport services. People are advised to take precautions to prevent accidents due to icy surfaces. The Met Office is monitoring the situation closely and may issue further warnings in the coming days as cold temperatures persist across the UK.
The severe weather conditions serve as a stark reminder for residents in Wales to take necessary precautions and stay informed about any updates or changes in the forecast. The safety and well-being of individuals are paramount during such wintry episodes. Stay tuned for the latest updates and follow guidelines to stay safe amidst the challenging weather conditions impacting the region.
As the winter weather tightens its grip on Wales, the authorities are working to ensure public safety and minimise disruptions caused by the snow and ice. It is essential for residents to heed the warnings and take appropriate measures to safeguard themselves and their communities during this period of inclement weather. Affected areas are advised to stay alert and follow any instructions from local authorities to navigate through the challenging conditions.