UK weather – live: Met Office issues flooding warning with heavy rain to hit England tonight
Further yellow weather warnings have been issued by the Met Office, as heavy rain is set to hit large parts of the UK on Saturday evening.
The forecaster expects the weather to impact Newcastle and East Anglia along England’s east coast, with a warning in place from 7pm until midday on Sunday.
Another fresh yellow warning for rain for Cornwall, as well as parts of Devon and Somerset, is due to come into effect at 6pm and last until 6am tomorrow morning.
This comes after an Artic blast wreaked chaos across the UK, with schools closing in north Wales and the Peak District due to snow, ice and sleet.
About 10cm of snow was measured by the Met Office in Kirkwall, Orkney, Scotland, on Thursday, while 9cm was recorded in West Yorkshire.
It comes as heavy rain continues to fall across the country triggering hundreds of flood warnings and alerts across Britain.
As of midday on Saturday, a total of 76 flood warnings and 275 lower level flood alerts are in place for England as heavy rain is set to hit this evening.
Key Points
Almost 400 flood alerts and warnings in England
Chance of power cuts and travel chaos
Snow and ice weather warnings in force today
Flooding causes travel chaos
Derbyshire Council says its gritters are working ‘around the clock'
Thursday 8 February 2024 10:46 , Holly Evans
Derbyshire Council has put its 35 gritters to use in the Peak District, in a bid to clear the roads and ensure safety as they face a day of snow and ice.
With some snow settling on the higher routes in the Peak District our gritter drivers are out keeping an eye on things, and gritting where needed. pic.twitter.com/ciubapdgAd
— Derbyshire CC (@Derbyshirecc) February 8, 2024
More pictures as snow falls across the Peak District
Thursday 8 February 2024 11:30 , Holly Evans
Millions of drivers would still get behind the wheel despite heavy snow, survey finds
Thursday 8 February 2024 11:42 , Holly Evans
Nearly two our of five (39%) motorists would still get behind the wheel regardless of the amount of snow on the roads, new research suggests.
The RAC, which commissioned the survey, warned that driving during extreme weather “can carry huge risks”.
Some 29% of respondents in the poll of 2,300 drivers admitted scaring themselves after losing control of their vehicle in snow.
Weather warnings for snow have been issued for large parts of the UK on Thursday.
The RAC is advising motorists to check their vehicles and adjust their driving style during the current cold snap, and not take any risks that put themselves and their passengers in danger.
Met Office warn of rain, sleet and snow moving northwards
Thursday 8 February 2024 12:19 , Holly Evans
The UK’s forecaster has warned that a band of rain, snow and sleet is set to push itself northwards as yellow and amber weather warnings remain in place across large parts of the country.
A band of rain, sleet and snow continues to slowly push northwards this afternoon, with a second band of rain sweeping in later ❄️☔⚠️
Ahead of this, some sunny spells and a few wintry showers over the Northern Isles ⛅
Stay #WeatherAware pic.twitter.com/s9M0KrZGua— Met Office (@metoffice) February 8, 2024
Buxton residents brave snow as Met Office warns of travel disruption in UK
Thursday 8 February 2024 12:57 , Holly Evans
Buxton residents brave snow as Met Office warns of travel disruption in UK
Worst of the snow set to hit this afternoon, says Met Office
Thursday 8 February 2024 13:15 , Holly Evans
Met Office spokesman Oli Claydon said that overnight temperatures had reached a low of -18.8C in Altnaharra, in the Scottish Highlands, while in Plymouth temperatures were at a high of 11.9C.
He added that disruption had already been caused in Orkney, which had recorded 12cm of snow on Thursday morning.
He told PA: “The worst of the snow will be later on today. Through this morning and this afternoon you’re more likely to see accumulations.
“The snow risk tomorrow is moving much further north, and it will be a bit of a drier day.”
Minor road traffic collisions in north Wales
Thursday 8 February 2024 13:30 , Holly Evans
North Wales Police have reported that minor traffic collisions have been reported due to the ongoing bad weather, with rural areas of Denbighshire, Flintshire and Wrexham particularly affected.
Drivers have been urged to “take extra care” and to use main roads when travelling around.
We're receiving several reports of (thankfully) minor road traffic collisions & road distruptions, in particular in rural areas of Denbighshire, Flintshire & Wrexham. Officers are committed with those so please take extra care if you're travelling this afternoon.
(thread 🔽 ) pic.twitter.com/GBga6k4nl7— North Wales Police (@NWPolice) February 8, 2024
More pictures of snow across the UK
Thursday 8 February 2024 13:45 , Holly Evans
February freeze hits rail, air and ferry travel
Thursday 8 February 2024 14:05 , Holly Evans
“The return of the Beast from the East” – that’s one warning about latest bout of extreme winter weather to hit the UK, which says the predicted snow, ice and rain could be as bad as the February 2018 storm.
The Met Office has issued yellow and amber weather warnings for snow and ice today, covering most of the UK from the Midlands northwards. A separate yellow weather warning for wind and rain rain is in force for all of southern England and southeast Wales from the M4 corridor southwards.
James Madden of Exacta Weather warns that the Midlands will be first to experience heavy snow, followed by northern England.
Read the full article from travel correspondent Simon Calder here
February freeze hits rail, air and ferry travel
What is the UK’s five day weather forecast?
Thursday 8 February 2024 14:25 , Holly Evans
Today:
Rain, sleet and snow pushes northwards through Thursday. Snow confined to North Wales, Northern Ireland and northern England, mainly on high ground. Snow turning to freezing rain for north Wales bringing icy stretches. Brighter spells and heavy rain further south.
Tonight:
Rain and snow continue to track northwards into Scotland overnight but intensities decrease. A widespread frost expected away from coasts in the north but more rain moves in further south.
Friday:
Wintry showers continue in the far north. Band of rain and hill snow across central areas move northwards through the day. Cloudy in the south with some showers, locally heavy.
Outlook for Saturday to Monday:
Largely cloudy on Saturday with some rain in the south, and wintry showers further north. Drier in the east on Sunday with light winds, cloudier in the west.
Is my school closed today? Latest updates as snow hits UK
Thursday 8 February 2024 14:44 , Holly Evans
More than 100 schools have been forced to close as snow and ice hit large parts of the UK, with commuters facing delays and road closures.
Amber weather warnings for snow have been issued for parts of northern England and north Wales, while a mixture of yellow rain and snow warnings will be in force across the four nations.
As of midday on Thursday, snow had begun to blanket parts of the UK, with the worst yet to come as the Met Office forces up to 25cm in the afternoon.
Read the full article here
Is my school closed today? Latest updates as snow hits UK
RAC advises drivers to wait until conditions improve
Thursday 8 February 2024 15:35 , Holly Evans
RAC breakdown spokesman Rod Dennis said: “The vast majority of drivers are heavily reliant on their cars, something that’s exacerbated when the weather turns icy or snowy, especially if public transport is impacted and drivers have no choice but to use their cars for trips they consider essential.
“Doing so can carry huge risks however, and it’s vitally important drivers follow guidance from the Met Office and others accordingly whenever there is a warning for severe weather issued – especially if it is an amber or even rare red warning.
“Waiting until conditions improve might well be the safest and best course of action.
“If a driver has made the decision that it is safe to set out in snow and ice, it’s important drivers always check their cars and adjust their driving styles to cope with whatever wintry conditions are thrown at them.
“A car’s braking distance can increase by up to 10 times when there’s snow and ice on a road, meaning it’s vital to check all tyres have plenty of tread and slow down considerably to reduce the chances of a collision.”
In pictures: Snow falls in parts of the UK
Thursday 8 February 2024 16:25 , Matt Mathers
Icy weather in Northern Ireland threatens to disrupt travel
Thursday 8 February 2024 17:19 , Matt Mathers
A band of rain, sleet and snow is threatening to disrupt travel in parts of Northern Ireland on Thursday and into Friday morning.
Sub-zero weather conditions are affecting parts of the UK this week, with dozens of schools closed in northern England and north Wales, and travel disruption expected throughout the day.
Full report:
Icy weather in Northern Ireland threatens to disrupt travel
13 flood warnings in place as UK hit with snow and near freezing temperatures
Thursday 8 February 2024 18:03 , Matt Mathers
Thirteen flood warnings are in place as the UK is hit with snow and near freezing temperatures.
The Bristol, Hull and Scarborough areas are among some of places where the warnings are active.
The warnings mean “flooding is expected”. Some 176 less serious flood alerts are also in place across England.
Minor road traffic collisions in north Wales
Thursday 8 February 2024 18:40 , Matt Mathers
North Wales Police have reported that minor traffic collisions have been reported due to the ongoing bad weather, with rural areas of Denbighshire, Flintshire and Wrexham particularly affected.
Drivers have been urged to “take extra care” and to use main roads when travelling around.
We're receiving several reports of (thankfully) minor road traffic collisions & road distruptions, in particular in rural areas of Denbighshire, Flintshire & Wrexham. Officers are committed with those so please take extra care if you're travelling this afternoon.
(thread 🔽 ) pic.twitter.com/GBga6k4nl7— North Wales Police (@NWPolice) February 8, 2024
Power cuts and travel disruption possible
Thursday 8 February 2024 21:57 , Matt Mathers
Power cuts and travel disruption are possible on Friday as an Arctic blast brings more snow and ice to the UK.
Yellow warnings for snow and ice are in place throughout Friday across all four nations, with forecasters urging people to “be cautious”.
It comes after dozens of schools were forced to shut on Thursday due to the adverse weather conditions.
ICYMI: Heavy snow headed to the UK as Met Office issues yellow warning
Thursday 8 February 2024 22:00 , Matt Mathers
A band of heavy snow could cause disruption later this week, with as much as 20cm possible in higher areas.
Temperatures will drop as the week goes on, with a yellow snow warning issued which covers much of Wales as well as northern and central England, the Met Office said.
Full report:
Heavy snow headed to the UK as Met Office issues yellow warning
Snow mapped: Where will wintry showers hit UK this week as temperatures plunge to -10C
Thursday 8 February 2024 23:00 , Matt Mathers
A blanket of snow is set to fall upon parts of the UK as the Met Office forecasts wintry showers this week as temperatures may plunge as low as -10C.
These maps show the parts of the country where snow is most likely to fall:
Map shows where snow to hit the UK this week as temperatures plunge to -10C
ICYMI: February freeze hits rail, air and ferry travel
Friday 9 February 2024 00:01 , Matt Mathers
“The return of the Beast from the East” – that’s one warning about the latest bout of extreme winter weather to hit the UK, which says the predicted snow, ice and rain could be as bad as the February 2018 storm.
Full report:
February freeze hits rail, air and ferry travel
ICYMI: Millions of drivers would still get behind the wheel despite heavy snow – survey
Friday 9 February 2024 01:00 , Matt Mathers
Nearly two our of five (39%) motorists would still get behind the wheel regardless of the amount of snow on the roads, new research suggests.
The RAC, which commissioned the survey, warned that driving during extreme weather “can carry huge risks”.
Millions of drivers would still get behind the wheel despite heavy snow – survey
ICYMI: Snow starts to fall across parts of UK with worst still to come
Friday 9 February 2024 02:00 , Matt Mathers
Snow has started to fall across parts of the UK with the worst still to come on Thursday, forecasters have said.
Dozens of schools have closed in northern England and north Wales and travel disruption is expected throughout the day.
Snow starts to fall across parts of UK with worst still to come
ICYMI: New UN weather agency chief says rate of global warming is speeding up
Friday 9 February 2024 03:00 , Matt Mathers
The new chief of the World Meteorological Organization said it looks to her that the rate of human-caused climate change is accelerating and that warming has triggered more Arctic cold outbreaks in North America and Europe, weighing in on two issues that divide climate scientists.
In her first sit-down interview since taking office last month, WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo told The Associated Press that even though her agency said last year was 1.48 degrees Celsius (2.66 Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial levels, the world must “keep on with its ambition of trying not to reach 1.5” degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit) on a longer-term basis, not just one year. “We have a trend that is really worrying. The trend is very clear.”
New UN weather agency chief says rate of global warming is speeding up
ICYMI: Experts explain extreme weather as UK prepares for stormiest winter on record
Friday 9 February 2024 04:00 , Matt Mathers
Weather experts have warned that the UK is likely facing its stormiest winter on record as the country has already faced ten named storms with over half of the season still to go.
The storm season begins each year in September and there are usually around six or seven storms in that year.
Full report:
Experts explain extreme weather as UK prepares for stormiest winter on record
World’s largest offshore wind farm delayed by bad weather
Friday 9 February 2024 05:00 , Matt Mathers
The opening of the world’s largest offshore wind farm, off the north-east coast of England, could be delayed due to poor weather.
The wind farm had originally started producing its first power in October last year, with commercial operations set to start this year.
Full report:
World’s largest offshore wind farm delayed by bad weather
Snow mapped: Where will wintry showers hit UK this week as temperatures plunge to -10C
Friday 9 February 2024 06:00 , Matt Mathers
A blanket of snow is set to fall upon parts of the UK as the Met Office forecasts wintry showers this week as temperatures may plunge as low as -10C.
These maps show the parts of the country where snow is most likely to fall:
Map shows where snow to hit the UK this week as temperatures plunge to -10C
ICYMI: Snow starts to fall across parts of UK with worst still to come
Friday 9 February 2024 07:00 , Matt Mathers
Snow has started to fall across parts of the UK with the worst still to come on Thursday, forecasters have said.
Dozens of schools have closed in northern England and north Wales and travel disruption is expected throughout the day.
Full report:
Snow starts to fall across parts of UK with worst still to come
Weather warnings continue
Friday 9 February 2024 08:17 , Athena Stavrou
Several weather warnings are expected to remain in place going into the weekend as more rain, snow and ice are predicted to wreak havoc on the UK.
Two yellow weather warnings for snow and ice will continue across most of Scotland on Friday and Saturday until 6pm with the Met Office urging people to be cautious.
The warning comes with a chance of power cuts, ice-related injuries and travel delays.
Much of wider Britain is expecting more heavy rain with hundreds of flood alerts in place for Friday.
Today’s weather forecast
Friday 9 February 2024 08:30 , Athena Stavrou
Good morning and here is the Met Office’s latest weather forecast for Friday:
Today:
Wintry showers continuing in the far north, with a band of rain and mainly hill snow across central areas moving northwards through the day. Cloudier in the south with some showers, these locally heavy. Mild in the south, colder elsewhere.
Tonight:
Rain and hill snow persisting across north and east Scotland. Elsewhere, patchy cloudy with some showers or longer spells of rain. Fog patches may develop underneath the clearest spells.
Latest weather pictures
Friday 9 February 2024 09:06 , Athena Stavrou
Flooding cancels trains in south west
Friday 9 February 2024 09:48 , Athena Stavrou
Flooding has blocked all lines between Bristol Parkway and Swindon as much of the UK continues to face heavy rain on Friday.
National Rail said that there will be a reduced service between the two stations with trains cancelled, delayed or diverted until at least the end of the day.
There are 300 flood alerts and 84 flood warnings in place across England.
ℹ️ #Swindon - Flooding between Bristol Parkway and Swindon means all lines are blocked. As a result, trains may be cancelled, delayed by up to 30 minutes or diverted. This is expected until the end of the day.
— National Rail (@nationalrailenq) February 9, 2024
Advice issued to elderly as snow continues
Friday 9 February 2024 10:14 , Athena Stavrou
Caroline Abrahams, charity director at Age UK, urged older people to do all they can to keep warm and safe as the temperature drops.
She said: “High energy bills and food prices mean it is understandable that some may think they have to cut back on food and turn their heating off, but prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can have a serious impact on their health, especially if they are already managing existing illnesses.
“As we get older our bodies find it harder to adjust to big changes in temperature, particularly if we are also coping with ill health or mobility issues. The cold raises blood pressure, which in turn increases the risk of a heart attack or stroke.”
The charity gave a number of tips including plenty of hot food and drinks, wrapping up warm outside and sleeping with the windows closed at night. It also advised people to keep an eye on older relatives, friends and neighbours.
Almost 400 flood alerts and warnings in England
Friday 9 February 2024 10:39 , Athena Stavrou
There are 382 flood warnings and flood alerts currently in place across England, as the country deals with the aftermath of snow and continuing heavy rain.
There are 76 flood warnings in place and 306 less severe flood alerts. The alerts stretch from north to south but the majority are concentrating in the midlands and southern England.
Flood warnings mean that flooding is expected and locals are told to consider putting their flood plan in action if they have one.
The Environment agency has also warned residents in flood warning zones to avoid walking, cycling or driving through flood water.
Meanwhile in Scotland, there are two flood warnings and one flood alert in place in Dumfries and Galloway. There are also 20 flood alerts in place across Wales.
School children push bus through snow in Sheffield
Friday 9 February 2024 11:20 , Athena Stavrou
School children were pictured having to push a bus through the streets of Sheffield yesterday as the city was blanketed in snow.
Photos posted to X, formerly known as Twitter, show a crowd of what appear to be students gathering behind a bus stuck on an icy road in the Crosspool area of the city.
Bemused social media users reacted to the picture - which was taken on Thursday and has racked up over 34,000 views - with one asking: “What in the health and safety is going here??!!”
School kids pushing their own bus #snow #sheffield pic.twitter.com/w6VY1PVoji
— Chris Mann (@mann_music) February 8, 2024
Weather warning updated
Friday 9 February 2024 11:57 , Athena Stavrou
The Met Office has updated its weather warnings for snow today.
There is now one yellow weather warning for snow in place across northern Scotland until tomorrow at 3pm.
The warning brings the possibility of injuries from slips on ice, power cuts and travel delays in the region.
Ferries cancelled amid severe weather
Friday 9 February 2024 12:26 , Athena Stavrou
A number of ferry services have been cancelled as extreme weather wreaks havoc on travel plans.
CalMac ferries have been forced to cancel several services today. According to their website, four routes have been completely cancelled until the end of the day and a further ten have had one or more sailings disrupted.
The company advised its passengers to check the status of routes on its website ahead of travelling.
Watch: Friday’s forecast
Friday 9 February 2024 13:00 , Athena Stavrou
Wintry showers are expected to continue in the far north, with a band of rain and mainly hill snow across central areas moving northwards through the day.
Cloudier in the south with some showers, these locally heavy. Mild in the south, colder elsewhere.
It's certainly a cold Friday in the north with temperatures below average, and with the strong winds it's feeling even chillier 🌬️
Milder air is filtering into southern regions, and lighter winds here mean you'll hopefully feel the benefit of it 🌡️ pic.twitter.com/6cFSYifvhp— Met Office (@metoffice) February 9, 2024
Latest weather pictures
Friday 9 February 2024 13:30 , Athena Stavrou
What to expect from weather warnings
Friday 9 February 2024 14:00 , Athena Stavrou
In Scotland, a yellow warning for snow came into effect at 12pm on Thursday and will remain in place until 3pm on Friday. The warning covers most of the central belt and parts of the Scottish Borders but also extends north.
Here’s what to expect with the warning, according to the Met Office:
There is a small chance that power cuts will occur and other services, such as mobile phone coverage, may be affected
There is a slight chance that some rural communities could become cut off
A small chance of injuries from slips and falls on icy surfaces
There is a chance of travel delays on roads with some stranded vehicles and passengers, along with delayed or cancelled rail and air travel
Met Office advice for travelling in heavy snow and ice
Friday 9 February 2024 14:30 , Athena Stavrou
Many roads across Britain are incredibly icy today, as snow continues to fall across Scotland. Here is the Met Office’s advice for travelling in heavy snow and ice:
If you have to make a journey when snow is forecast, make sure you have warm clothes, food, water, boots, a torch and spade, and let someone know when you expect to arrive and your route.
Put grit or cat litter on paths and driveways to lessen the risk of slipping on compacted snow.
Use the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin.
If braking is necessary, pump the brakes don’t slam them on.
If you get stuck, stay with your car and tie something brightly coloured to your aerial
Weekend weather forecast
Friday 9 February 2024 15:00 , Athena Stavrou
Today:
Wintry showers continuing in the far north, with a band of rain and mainly hill snow across central areas moving northwards through the day. Cloudier in the south with some showers, these locally heavy. Mild in the south, colder elsewhere.
Tonight:
Rain and hill snow persisting across north and east Scotland. Elsewhere, patchy cloudy with some showers or longer spells of rain. Fog patches may develop underneath the clearest spells.
Saturday:
Rain and some snow persisting in the far north, mostly over higher ground. Occasional brighter interludes in the south once any fog clears, with showers, these mostly in the west.
Outlook for Sunday to Tuesday:
Often cloudy through the period with showers or longer spells of rain. Some bright or sunny intervals developing, most likely on Tuesday. Breezy along the coasts with temperatures around average.
Melted snow triggers hundreds of flood alerts
Friday 9 February 2024 15:31 , Athena Stavrou
Melted snow is contributing to the hundreds of flood warnings and alerts currently in place across England, the Environment Agency has said.
There are currently 86 flood warnings and 310 less severe flood alerts in place across England.
The alerts stretch from north to south but the majority are concentrating in the midlands and southern England.
Flood warnings mean that flooding is expected and locals are told to consider putting their flood plan in action if they have one.
“Following yesterday’s heavy rainfall and melting snow there are flood warnings and alerts across the country,” the Environment Agency said. “There is further rain today in places, please check your flood risk. It’s important you know how to prepare.”
Following yesterday’s heavy rainfall and melting snow there are flood warnings and alerts across the country.
There is further rain today in places, please check your flood risk. It's important you know how to prepare.
Stay safe and sign up for alerts: https://t.co/fEmOrgjEkn pic.twitter.com/CHVWRzvEbP— Environment Agency (@EnvAgency) February 9, 2024
Where will see snow over the weekend?
Friday 9 February 2024 16:00 , Athena Stavrou
While most of the UK will not be seeing any more wintry showers over the weekend, some spots will still be affected by a yellow weather warning for snow until Saturday afternoon.
Much of the rest of the UK are now being affected by flood warnings and alerts as they deal with the aftermath of melting snow over the weekend.
However, up in Scotland, many areas will still see snow. The areas affected are:
Central, Tayside & Fife
Angus
Perth and Kinross
Stirling
Grampian
Aberdeenshire
Moray
Highlands & Eilean Siar
Scotland set for more snow as England faces flooding threat
Friday 9 February 2024 17:00 , Athena Stavrou
People are being warned to expect disruption with weather warnings of snow and ice in place for much of Scotland from Friday into Saturday.
The Met Office has warned some roads and railways are likely to be affected while there is a chance of power cuts and disruption to mobile phone services.
Weather warnings of snow and rain south of the border have expired, though flood warnings and alerts remain in place throughout much of England.
Read the full article here:
Scotland set for more snow as England faces flooding threat
School children push bus through snow in Sheffield
Friday 9 February 2024 18:00 , Athena Stavrou
School children were pictured having to push a bus through the streets of Sheffield yesterday as the city was blanketed in snow.
Photos posted to X, formerly known as Twitter, show a crowd of what appear to be students gathering behind a bus stuck on an icy road in the Crosspool area of the city.
Bemused social media users reacted to the picture - which was taken on Thursday and has racked up over 34,000 views - with one asking: “What in the health and safety is going here??!!”
Advice issued to elderly as snow continues
Friday 9 February 2024 19:00 , Athena Stavrou
Caroline Abrahams, charity director at Age UK, urged older people to do all they can to keep warm and safe as the temperature drops.
She said: “High energy bills and food prices mean it is understandable that some may think they have to cut back on food and turn their heating off, but prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can have a serious impact on their health, especially if they are already managing existing illnesses.
“As we get older our bodies find it harder to adjust to big changes in temperature, particularly if we are also coping with ill health or mobility issues. The cold raises blood pressure, which in turn increases the risk of a heart attack or stroke.”
The charity gave a number of tips including plenty of hot food and drinks, wrapping up warm outside and sleeping with the windows closed at night. It also advised people to keep an eye on older relatives, friends and neighbours.
Watch: This weekend’s weather forecast
Friday 9 February 2024 20:00 , Athena Stavrou
As Britain comes to the end of yet another cold and wintry week - here’s what people across the nation can expect to see over the weekend, according to the Met Office:
Wondering what the weather prospects are like this weekend?
Here's the detail you're after ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/jAVWIPIsbP— Met Office (@metoffice) February 9, 2024
In pictured: Snow continue to falls across the nation
Friday 9 February 2024 21:00 , Athena Stavrou
Where is the snowiest place in the UK?
Friday 9 February 2024 22:00 , Athena Stavrou
Scotland sees the most snow in the UK, with snow or sleet falling on 38.1 days on average.
The weather station which recorded the most snowfall in the UK was the Cairngorm Chairlift, with snow falling on 76.2 days throughout the year (based on 1981-2010 averages), according to the Met Office.
Scotland is set to continue their reputation for large amounts of snowfall, as the region will continue to be hit with wintry showers until Saturday afternoon.
Weather sparks day of travel chaos
Friday 9 February 2024 23:00 , Athena Stavrou
The continuation of snow, rain and flooding across the UK triggered a day of travel chaos for Britons on Friday.
National Rail said there would be a reduced service between Bristol Parkway and Swindon with trains cancelled, delayed, or diverted until at least the end of the day after flooding blocked the lines.
There was also disruption between Leeds and Harrogate following heavy rain flooding the line and several lines in Scotland have also been affected by the severe weather.
CalMac ferries were also forced to cancel several services today. According to their website, four routes were completely cancelled until the end of the day and a further ten had one or more sailings disrupted.
The company advised its passengers to check the status of routes on its website ahead of travelling.
Weather warnings in place
00:01 , Athena Stavrou
Some areas of the UK are set to remain under weather warnings for snow over the first part of the weekend.
A Yellow weather warning for snow will continue across Scotland on Friday and Saturday with the Met Office urging people to be cautious.
It will remain in place until 3pm on Saturday and comes with a probability of power cuts, travel disruption and injuries due to slips on ice.
About 10cm of snow was measured by the Met Office in Kirkwall, Orkney, Scotland, on Thursday, while 9cm was recorded in West Yorkshire.
What to expect from weather warnings
01:00 , Athena Stavrou
In Scotland, a yellow warning for snow came into effect at 12pm on Thursday and will remain in place until 3pm on Friday. The warning covers most of the central belt and parts of the Scottish Borders but also extends north.
Here’s what to expect with the warning, according to the Met Office:
There is a small chance that power cuts will occur and other services, such as mobile phone coverage, may be affected
There is a slight chance that some rural communities could become cut off
A small chance of injuries from slips and falls on icy surfaces
There is a chance of travel delays on roads with some stranded vehicles and passengers, along with delayed or cancelled rail and air travel
Weekend weather forecast
02:00 , Athena Stavrou
Friday Night:
Rain and hill snow persisting across north and east Scotland. Elsewhere, patchy cloudy with some showers or longer spells of rain. Fog patches may develop underneath the clearest spells.
Saturday:
Rain and some snow persisting in the far north, mostly over higher ground. Occasional brighter interludes in the south once any fog clears, with showers, these mostly in the west.
Outlook for Sunday to Tuesday:
Often cloudy through the period with showers or longer spells of rain. Some bright or sunny intervals developing, most likely on Tuesday. Breezy along the coasts with temperatures around average.
Met Office advice for travelling in heavy snow and ice
03:00 , Athena Stavrou
Many roads across Britain are incredibly icy today, as snow continues to fall across Scotland. Here is the Met Office’s advice for travelling in heavy snow and ice:
If you have to make a journey when snow is forecast, make sure you have warm clothes, food, water, boots, a torch and spade, and let someone know when you expect to arrive and your route.
Put grit or cat litter on paths and driveways to lessen the risk of slipping on compacted snow.
Use the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin.
If braking is necessary, pump the brakes don’t slam them on.
If you get stuck, stay with your car and tie something brightly coloured to your aerial
ICYM: World’s largest offshore wind farm delayed by bad weather
04:00 , Athena Stavrou
The opening of the world’s largest offshore wind farm, off the north-east coast of England, could be delayed due to poor weather.
The wind farm had originally started producing its first power in October last year, with commercial operations set to start this year.
Full report:
World’s largest offshore wind farm delayed by bad weather
How to help birds survive in snow
05:00 , Athena Stavrou
The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) has issued suggestions to householders on helping birds survive the snow.
Snow is set to continue to fall in Scotland over the weekend and many areas of the UK are still dealing with unmelted snow and ice.
The RSPB advised bird lovers to leave piles of leaves, logs or sticks to provide a natural hideaway for birds, provide high energy food like suet or nuts, and break ice on birdbaths.
With the Met Office issuing snow warnings, here's four easy ways to give nature a hand 🌨️❄️
Your local wildlife will thank you for it! pic.twitter.com/gfqSay5fQX— RSPB 🦉 (@Natures_Voice) February 7, 2024
Where will see snow over the weekend?
06:00 , Athena Stavrou
While most of the UK will not be seeing any more wintry showers over the weekend, some spots will still be affected by a yellow weather warning for snow until Saturday afternoon.
Much of the rest of the UK are now being affected by flood warnings and alerts as they deal with the aftermath of melting snow over the weekend.
However, up in Scotland, many areas will still see snow. The areas affected are:
Central, Tayside & Fife
Angus
Perth and Kinross
Stirling
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Latest weather pictures
07:00 , Athena Stavrou
Yellow weather warning for snow across north of Scotland
08:38 , Holly Evans
A yellow weather warning for snow has been issued in the north of Scotland.
The warning is in place until 3pm on Saturday and will cover most of Aberdeenshire, Moray and the Highlands.
The Met Office has told residents there could be a small chance of power cuts, and other services such as mobile phone coverage may be affected.
Some rural communities could be cut off and there is a small chance of injuries from slips and falls on icy surfaces.
Flood warnings remain in place in England
09:17 , Holly Evans
Warnings south of the border have expired, but there are still 90 flood warnings and 306 alerts in place across England, with nine flood alerts and 10 warnings in Scotland.
Despite the weather warning, train operator ScotRail has confirmed on social media that most services will be running on Saturday, with the exception of routes where there are planned engineering works.
Services have also been affected on the North West Highland line.
Ferry operator Calmac has announced a number of delays and cancellations due to the adverse weather.
Five day weather forecast
10:48 , Holly Evans
Today:
Some fog during the morning, then many staying dry with sunny spells. Showers at times, mainly in the southwest, with outbreaks of rain, sleet and hill snow affecting the north and east of Scotland. Feeling cold in Scotland. Milder elsewhere.
Tonight:
Some clear spells overnight where fog may develop. In the southwest, turning windy with further showers. Rain clearing Scotland, with further rain across eastern England. Feeling chilly for many.
Sunday:
Patchy mist and fog to start. Showers continuing in the southwest, some of these heavy and possibly thundery at times. Cloudy for some eastern areas with rain possible. Average temperatures.
Outlook for Monday to Wednesday:
Breezy on Monday with sunny spells and showers. Rain at times on Tuesday and Wednesday but some drier interludes too. Temperatures around average, though mild in the south.
Two new weather warnings issued by Met Office
12:03 , Holly Evans
Two new yellow weather warnings for heavy rain have been issued across large parts of England, as the Met Office warn that people could face travel disruption and some flooding.
One warning covers Newcastle and its surrounding areas down to East Anglia, along England’s east coast, and is due to come into force at 7pm and lasts until 12pm on Sunday.
Another fresh yellow warning for rain covers much of Cornwall as well as parts of Devon and Somerset. That warning begins at 6pm on Satuday and is due to last until 6am tomorrow morning.
Mapped: Where rain is expected to hit the UK this evening
12:11 , Holly Evans
A total of 76 flood warnings and 275 lower level flood alerts are currently in place for England as heavy rain is set to hit this evening.
What to expect in heavy rain
12:39 , Holly Evans
The Met Office has warned that the yellow weather warning for heavy rain could lead to the flooding of a few homes and businesses, while spray on the roads could make journeys take longer.
Bus and train services might alos be affected, with delays possible.
⚠️ Yellow weather warning issued ⚠️
Rain across eastern parts of England
Saturday 1900 – Sunday 1200
Latest info 👉 https://t.co/QwDLMfRBfs
Stay #WeatherAware⚠️ pic.twitter.com/mKS97J7Pk3— Met Office (@metoffice) February 10, 2024
The Met Office warn that snow could still fall in Scotland
13:30 , Holly Evans
In a post on social media, the Met Office warned that snow could still fall in higher areas of Scotland.
Rain or showers in places this afternoon, these heaviest in southwestern areas, though brighter in the west with some sunshine
Still cold enough for some hill snow in northern Scotland and windy here, but otherwise generally on the mild side for February pic.twitter.com/aymUUl1AjR— Met Office (@metoffice) February 10, 2024
Yellow weather warning for snow across north of Scotland
14:30 , Holly Evans
A yellow weather warning for snow has been issued in the north of Scotland.
The warning is in place until 3pm on Saturday and will cover most of Aberdeenshire, Moray and the Highlands.
The Met Office has told residents there could be a small chance of power cuts, and other services such as mobile phone coverage may be affected.
Read the full article here
Yellow weather warning for snow across north of Scotland
Why are storms named?
15:30 , Holly Evans
For the 2023/24 season, the way the Met Office and Irish service Met Éireann names storms has changed.
Previously, names were drawn from a shortlist of favourites chosen by the public.
But now, the storms will be named after those working to protect people from severe weather around the UK.
Along with Met Eireann in Ireland and KNMI, the Dutch weather service, meteorologists name storms when they are expected to have a “medium” or “high” impact on people in the UK, Ireland or the Netherlands.
Will Lang, head of situational awareness at the Met Office, said: “This is the ninth year of us naming storms and we do it because it works.
“Naming storms helps to ease communication of severe weather and provides clarity when people could be impacted by the weather.”
Rain to hit the UK this evening
17:10 , Holly Evans
Showers and longer periods of rain around at times to end Saturday 🌧️
Low cloud and fog will make it murky in places as well 🌫️ pic.twitter.com/55E7Oup4Gm— Met Office (@metoffice) February 10, 2024
Surface flooding and disruption to travel possible
19:00 , Holly Evans
“Spells of rain will lead to some flooding and disruption to travel,” the Met Office has said for the north eastern alert around Newcastle and East Anglia.
A second yellow weather warning for Cornwall and parts of Devon and Somerset is also due to come in force at 6pm this evening.
For this aler, they added: “Heavy showers may lead to some surface water flooding and disruption to travel.”
20:32 , Sam Rkaina
We’re pausing our live coverage of the weather but keep checking independent.co.uk for the latest updates.
