The UK is continuing to endure sub-zero temperatures after a “cold plunge of Arctic air” has swept across the country.
It comes after the UK had its coldest night of the winter so far in the early hours of Wednesday 17 January when Dalwhinnie in the Scottish Highlands experienced a temperature of minus 14C.
An amber warning for snow across northern Scotland, the Orkney and Shetland Islands is currently in place until 6pm on Thursday, with the potential of up to 20cm more snowfall.
Shorter snow and ice warnings are also in place for Wales, south-east England and Northern Ireland.
What is the weather forecast from the Met Office?
According to the Met Office, the cold Arctic air currently in place over the UK will start to be displaced from the south from Friday, with a return to milder Atlantic air from the west.
However, while temperatures will increase from the markedly low figures of recent days, this change in air mass will also introduce the likelihood of a return to wet and windy weather for most through the weekend.
Met Office deputy chief meteorologist Dan Rudman said: “While the next few days will remain cold, we can see a change in weather type on the way, bringing milder air for the UK and returning temperatures to around average for the time of year from Friday onwards and well above average into next week.
“This change will initially be relatively benign in terms of weather impacts, with a dry Friday and start to Saturday for many in the south of the UK.
“The Atlantic influence will then introduce some wet and windy weather, with a deep area of low pressure approaching from the west on Sunday. While detail is still being worked out, this has the potential to bring heavy rain and strong winds for some, and we’ve issued an early warning for a large part of the UK.”
Is it too cold to walk my dog?
How your dog reacts to cold is dependent on a number of issues, including its size, age and the thickness of its coat.
Smaller dogs with less fur may struggle when temperatures edge towards zero and may benefit from a coat when they go outside.
Older dogs may also be more susceptible to the cold weather.
A temperature of -7ºC and below puts all dogs at a higher risk of hypothermia and frostbite, however.
Outward Hound says: “The double-layered, thick coats of dog breeds like Siberian huskies, Newfoundlands, Alaskan malamutes, and Bernese mountain dogs tend to be the most cold tolerant.
“On the other hand, dogs like Greyhounds, German shorthaired pointers, or American pit bull terriers who have short, thin coats will have a more difficult time maintaining a warm body temperature in colder weather.
“Smaller dogs and toy breeds like Chihuahuas have a harder time in the cold. They tend to lose body heat faster than larger dogs. Deep snow can reach their chest and make them cold and wet, so they are more at risk in colder temperatures.”
Wrap up warm
“It may be cosy indoors, but your dog needs regular walks regardless of the weather,” states the Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.
“When out on walks it’s important to make sure your four-legged friends are wrapped up warm. Put a dog coat on them when you go out, especially if you have a fine-coated dog, such as a Greyhound or Staffie.”
The animal welfare charity also advises owners to inspect, clean and dry your dog’s paws after a wintry walk.
“This is especially important with long-haired dogs as they are prone to snow compacting between their toes and turning into ice balls which can prove very painful,” they state.
“If they are agreeable, you could trim the long hair between your dog’s toes to help prevent this.”
Salt and grit can also lodge between their toes, making cleaning an important part of their post-walk routine.
As we approach the shortest day of the year, low light is also a consideration.
The charity recommends attaching a small light to your dog’s collar so they can be seen when out on walks in reduced visibility.
Cold cars can also be a danger to dogs.
“Just as cars can become fatally hot in summer months, temperatures can drop very quickly in cold weather,” they add. “Always take your dog with you rather than leaving them in the car for any length of time.”
You should also avoid your dog swimming outdoors when the temperature is below 7ºC. Keep them on a lead if you think they might be tempted to jump in.
You should be aware of the possibility of hypothermia – if your dog shows signs such as shaking, lethargy, stiff muscles, low heart rate or dilated pupils then take them inside immediately, wrap them in a blanket, and call a vet if you are worried.
What about other pets?
According to the RSPCA, it’s not just dogs that need extra care and attention during the cold snap.
In a new release, they advise keeping a close eye on outdoor pets like rabbits and guinea pigs, recommending owners to move them inside if the temperature starts to drop below freezing.
“We recommend guinea pigs are housed indoors when temperatures are below 15C,” they add.
“If you do bring your pets indoors, they still need plenty of time and room to exercise safely. If you have to leave them outside, provide them with lots of extra bedding and make sure their home is protected from adverse weather with insulating but ventilating covers. Hutches should be in a sheltered position, with a sloped roof and should be raised off the ground at least 10cm.”
They add that cats should always have constant access to the house or to a warm, indoor area such as an outbuilding or barn. “You should also ensure the cat’s bedding or sleeping area is warm, dry and away from any draughts,” they add.
If you keep pet birds in aviaries, coops, or runs, then you should also protect them from the cold weather.
“Provide plenty of additional dry, warm bedding such as straw and cover enclosures to keep the wind and rain out,” the animal welfare charity states. “Birds will eat more to keep warm in cold conditions so ensure the birds always have access to plenty of food and fresh water, ensuring water does not freeze over.”
If you have a fish pond, check it every day to make sure the surface is not entirely frozen as poisonous gases can build up under the ice.
“Don’t break the ice as this can harm the fish, but carefully place a saucepan of hot water on the surface to gently melt a hole in the ice.
“Never tip boiling water straight onto the pond either, as this can also harm or kill any fish living there. And never try to use antifreeze or salt to thaw frozen ponds or birdbaths.”
Horses and livestock also need extra care in the winter, such as adequate shelter to escape bad weather, extra feed, as grass can be sparse, and regular checks on water troughs to keep them clear of ice.
“Give added protection with a waterproof rug, ensure they have access to dry standing areas, and check hooves regularly for loose shoes or signs of problems such as mud fever.
“Farmers and smallholders should give extra consideration to young animals and whether they need extra protection from the cold weather.”
