The Met Office has issued two amber warnings for snow and ice on Thursday. The warnings are in place from 08:00 to 15:00 for north Wales and north-west Shropshire, and from 12:00 to 18:00 for the Peak District and south Pennines.
Snowfall of 10 to 15cm (4-6in) is expected in the warning areas, with up to 25cm (10in) on higher ground. The snow, described as "persistent and at times heavy," is forecast to develop in the morning and ease later in the day. Travel disruption is anticipated, with the Met Office advising against driving in these conditions. They suggest considering alternative forms of transport for essential journeys.
Power cuts are possible and there is a good chance of some rural communities being temporarily cut off.The Met Office warns that untreated pavements and cycle paths are likely to be impassable, with injuries from slips and falls likely on icy surfaces.Strong easterly winds may also result in some snow drifts.Similar disruption is expected in the Peak District and south Pennines, where the snow warning is in place. The Met Office is warning there may also be delays and cancellations of flights.
As well as the amber warnings, there are a number of yellow warnings spanning Thursday into Friday.These include two yellow snow and ice warnings covering parts of southern Scotland and parts of Northern Ireland, a snow warning covering much of northern England, north Wales and the Midlands, and a rain warning in place for much of southern England and south Wales.