The recent cold snap is giving way to a wetter, milder pattern, but not before delivering a rare and spectacular phenomenon: thundersnow. This isn't your typical snowstorm; it’s a collision of winter’s chill with the energy of a thunderstorm, manifesting as heavy snowfall accompanied by the rumble of thunder and flashes of lightning.
Temperatures plummeted dramatically Thursday night, with some rural areas of Scotland registering a frigid -12C. Across the UK, a widespread freeze gripped the land, setting the stage for potentially the coldest night of the winter so far. Lighter winds, however, offered a subtle difference from previous nights, allowing the cold to truly settle.
Despite the intense cold, a shift is underway. Forecasters predict widespread sunshine for Friday, a brief respite before the weather turns more unsettled. This change signals the end of the most severe cold, with temperatures expected to return to average levels by the weekend.
The UK Health Security Agency has issued a Cold Health Alert, emphasizing the potential impacts on health and social care services. While the extreme cold is easing, vigilance remains crucial, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Five flood alerts are currently active, a consequence of high river levels in areas including Bristol Avon, the River Derwent, and parts of the Severn and Bure river systems. Further rainfall is anticipated throughout the weekend, adding to the concern.
Today’s forecast promises a dry start for many, with temperatures gradually rising. However, rain will begin to move in from the west later in the day, and sunshine may become hazy as clouds gather. Tonight will bring cloudier skies and stronger winds, though temperatures will be milder overall.
The weekend will usher in a transition to more typical Atlantic weather, bringing cloud, rain, and stronger winds. While this means a reduction in wintry hazards, saturated ground in Wales and the Midlands could still lead to localized impacts. Temperatures will gradually climb back towards seasonal norms.
Looking ahead to next week, a settling trend is expected. Northeasterly winds will confine rain and showers to eastern areas, and cooler air arriving in the north may introduce the possibility of wintry conditions in the far north by Monday’s end. The dramatic shifts continue, but the most intense cold appears to be behind us.
While preparing for winter weather, be cautious of quick fixes for your car. Pouring hot water on a frozen windscreen can cause it to crack, and rubbing potatoes on the glass can leave a damaging residue. Instead, consider using hand sanitizer to de-freeze locks, covering wing mirrors with socks, or placing a sock filled with silica-based cat litter inside the car to combat foggy windows.
