It’s been a warmer and sunnier start to March but winter is set to make one final stand this weekend with snow and ice coming back to several areas of the UK.
The Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings for wind on Thursday in England and Northern Ireland, and this will be followed up with snow and ice on Friday, according to the forecaster’s latest weather maps.
According to its latest forecast maps, snow will hit Scotland, Northern Ireland and the north of England by 8am on Friday, March 13.
Areas set to be affected include Lancashire, North Yorkshire, Tyne and Wear, Cumbria and County Durham.
In Scotland, much of central Scotland will be affected including Glasgor, Biggar, Strathyre and Loch Rannoch.
The Met Office forecast for Friday says: “A cold and windy day with a mixture of sunshine and blustery showers. Showers merging to give more persistent rain and snow in places, the snow most likely over hills.”
In its advice on preparing for severe weather including snow, the Met Office urges homes to make sure they’re fully prepared because the inclement conditions can lead to travel disruption and power cuts.
First, make sure mobile phones are charged, and keep a spare fully charged battery pack on hand.
This is because heavy snow can cause localised power cuts, so it’s best to prepare for a loss of connectivity. Landlines, also, can be cut during storms, so charging your mobile is the best way to be ready.
The Met Office said: “You could be without food, heat or light if you are cut off by snow and can’t access services and amenities for a number of days. Act now and be prepared, by getting the essentials together that you could need:
- Torches and batteries
- Candles and matches or lighters
- Plenty of blankets and warm clothing.
“If you do experience a power cut, you shouldn’t call your energy supplier or call 999, the number to ring is 105.”