Parts of UK Experience Coldest November Night in 13 Years

Parts of the UK experienced their chilliest November night in 13 years last Wednesday, with temperatures plunging as low as -8C (18F) in the Scottish Highlands. The UK is braced for more snow and ice over the next three days.

Scotland and eastern England, extending to Norfolk in the south, have seen snowfall and should expect continued cold. Thick fog has created dangerous travel conditions in the Midlands, north-west England, and Northern Ireland, and it may spread to other areas.

Wednesday night's forecast predicts more snow in Scotland's north and east, as well as England's east, with possible snowfall over southwest England's moors into Thursday. Mixed rain and snow in Northern Ireland, coupled with freezing fog, have caused icy roads and sidewalks, while north Wales has experienced sleet.

This cold snap originates from Scandinavia, which is facing near-record low temperatures for November. Particularly cold spots overnight from Tuesday to Wednesday included Bridgefoot in Cumbria at -7.2C (19F) and Tyndrum in Crianlarich at -5.8C (22F).

The Met Office issued yellow weather warnings for snow and ice across various UK regions, indicating likely travel disruptions and hazardous conditions. Warnings are in effect from Wednesday evening through Friday morning in some areas, with road closures reported and authorities advising drivers to exercise caution.

London has enacted measures to assist the homeless during this severe cold, while the UK Health Security Agency has issued an amber-level cold-health alert for Northern England, signifying expected significant health impacts. A yellow alert is in place for the Midlands until December 5.

Dr. Agostinho Sousa from the agency advises the public to check on vulnerable individuals and recommends that the elderly and those with poor health warm their main living spaces.