The UK is bracing for a winter wallop as up to 12 inches of snow is forecasted amidst Baltic conditions sweeping the nation. Events are being cancelled left, right and centre, with experts issuing stark warnings about dangerous roads and the heightened risk to the vulnerable and elderly.
An amber snow and ice warning has been issued for most of the Midlands, Wales, and parts of northern England until Sunday midday, while a separate snow alert covers northern regions including Leeds, Sheffield, and the Lake District up until the stroke of midnight into Monday. Weather experts predict that the hardest-hit areas could see as much as 30cm of snow, while other locations might get between 3 to 7cm.
The icy blast caused horse racing at Sandown Park in Surrey to be called off on Saturday, with officials citing frozen grounds and tweeting: "Following this morning's inspection, sadly racing today has been abandoned due to frozen ground."
Drivers take heed – the Met Office is cautioning against treacherous freezing rain, which turns to ice on impact, making roads perilously slick. Journeys may take longer, with some routes likely to close, potentially leaving motorists stranded, and National Rail has advised travellers to check their "whole journey" before travelling.
The UK Health Security Agency has also issued cold weather health alerts for all of England, maintaining its warning as we gear up for a week of dipping temperatures. On Thursday, amber health alerts were raised until January 8, indicating that the frigid weather could lead to higher mortality rates.
Dr Agustinho Sousa, head of extreme events and health protection at UKHSA, commented: "The forecasted temperatures can have a serious impact on the health of some people, including those aged 65 and over and those with pre-existing health conditions."
Age UK's director, Caroline Abrahams, is calling on the elderly to stay extra warm, advising them: "Older people [must] do everything they can to stay warm, even if that means risking spending more on their heating than they feel they can afford."
She also mentioned, "The energy companies are under an obligation to help if you are struggling, and there may be support available from your local council, too."
In response to the freeze, London and southern England councils are opening additional facilities for the homeless to shield them from the harsh temperatures. Met Office meteorologist Dan Stroud forecasts a brief respite with warmer conditions by the weekend's end, but brace yourselves—as another cold spell is anticipated early next week.
