Snow forecast for Shropshire likely to bring disruption
Weather forecasters are predicting this weekend will see a marked change in the weather as the dry spell makes way for snow and ice.
Central areas of the UK including Shropshire could see up to 5-10cm of snow on Saturday as a band of wet weather over Northern Ireland and western Scotland moves slowly east and southeastwards across the United Kingdom during the day.
Paul Gundersen, Deputy Chief Forecaster at the Met Office, said: "As this front moves in from the west it will come up against cold air and we're likely to see a mixture of rain, sleet and snow across the UK.
"It's a finely balanced situation, so there is some uncertainty about which areas will see the most significant snowfall, but at the moment the risk is highest in central and eastern areas where we could see up to 5-10cm of snow.
"With this risk of snow and ice over the next few days it is important people stay up to date with our weather forecasts and warnings for the latest information."
The rain, sleet and snow will be replaced by dry and frosty weather overnight into Sunday with ice expected to be an additional hazard in many areas for Sunday.
Thereafter this east/west split is likely to continue, with the south and east remaining cold with ice and freezing fog likely. The north and west should be milder.
Keeping Safe
As temperatures drop, West Midlands Ambulance Service is urging the public to take some simple precautions to stay safe and healthy.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “There are simple steps that the public can take to help them stay safe during this wintery weather. Make sure you wrap up warm and wear sensible footwear, helping to avoid any unnecessary slips, trips and falls.
“If the weather does take a turn for the worse and you are travelling by road this weekend, make sure you allow extra time for your journey and be extra vigilant on icy roads. If it is a longer journey then take food such as chocolate and a warm drink with you.
“People with existing medical conditions that can be aggravated by cold weather should stay warm and be prepared by making sure they have all their medications, saving any avoidable journeys.
“We also appeal for people to be aware of those who are elderly, frail or in some way vulnerable to this type of weather, be it friends, neighbours or relatives. Why not show some community spirit and ensure that people in these categories do not have to go out and risk hurting themselves by getting in any essential supplies that they might need?
“The ambulance service historically experiences some of its busiest periods during winter, the public are asked to think before dialing 999, is your call really a serious life threatening emergency that requires an immediate 999 medical response?
“If you do need medical treatment but your condition is not life threatening, please consider using parts of the NHS other than A&E and the 999 service. Advice and treatment can be sought from pharmacist, your GP, walk in centres, minor injuries units and NHS Direct via 0845 46 47 or on-line at www.nhs.uk.”
Freezing Temperatures
Thursday night saw temperatures across the UK fall to between -6 °C and -8 °C in many areas and as low as -11.3 °C at Sennybridge, Powys, Wales.
A Department of Health spokesman said: “During this period of cold weather we would advise people to check local weather forecasts for the latest information on weather conditions and staying safe when outdoors. We are working closely with the NHS and local authorities to ensure vulnerable people stay well during cold weather and get the help they need within their communities.”
