Greater Manchester hit with snow and ice weather warning to welcome in new year

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Weather warnings for snow and ice have been issued across much of the UK, including here in Greater Manchester.

As the country wakes up to the first working day of the new year, cold Arctic air now covers most of the UK, according to the Met Office – with temperatures being well below average, widespread frost and ice, and an increasing risk of snow showers.

Snow is expected to settle on the ground in some areas, particularly in northern and some central areas, while the risk of widespread ice could make travel ‘hazardous’.

While much of Greater Manchester falls under the yellow weather warning for snow and ice issued by the Met Office – which is now in force, and expected to end around midday today (2 January) – it will primarily be more southern and western parts of our region that are likely to see snowfall, if any.

Forecasters say an area of sleet and snow is expected to move southeastwards across parts of England and Wales, lasting approximately two or three hours in any one place, and where snow does fall, only one or two cm is likely for some and perhaps as much as five cm in a few spots, especially higher ground of north Wales, north west England, and perhaps the north west Midlands.

Some ice may form as a result of snow frozen surfaces, and icy patches will also develop quickly as sleet and snow clears.

Greater Manchester braces for snow as the Met Office issues a yellow weather warning / Credit: Geograph | Pexels

Under the yellow weather warning, you should expect some roads and railways to be affected with longer journey times, some injuries may occur from slips and falls on icy surfaces, and there are likely some icy patches on untreated roads, pavements, and cycle paths.

“With Arctic air now covering most of the UK, very cold weather will continue through the weekend, with minus double figures overnight in places and daytime temperatures struggling to rise above 0°C for some,” explained Chief Met Office Forecaster, Neil Armstrong.

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“It looks like this cold spell could last well into next week and wintry hazards will continue with more weather warnings likely. It is therefore important people keep up to date with the latest forecast and warnings and plan ahead.”

You can keep up to date with weather warnings on the Met Office website here.

Featured Image – Benjamin Elliott (via Unsplash)

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