Winter Weather Alert: Up to 12 Inches of Snow Expected
A strong winter weather warning has been issued, forecasting up to 12 inches (30 cm) of heavy, drifting snow in parts of the country within hours.
Conditions and Impact
Gales, rapidly falling temperatures, and a messy transition from rain to snow are expected to make morning commutes and evening travel hazardous. Shops, roads, and rail services are all at risk of disruption.
Scenes from the City
Inside a corner shop, the rushed movements and nervous laughter over the last bag of rock salt reflect the growing concern. Outdoors, breath forms visible clouds as cars queue past a petrol station. A gritter moves slowly with its orange lights blinking against the dim sky. The heavy cloud cover gives the city a smaller, enclosed feel. Children excitedly press their faces to windows, while adults check weather apps, boots, and the time.
Weather Forecast Details
The snow line is expected to move southeast in the early hours, with the heaviest snowfall coinciding with the school run and late work shifts. Forecast models indicate a cold air plume colliding with moist Atlantic air, creating conditions ideal for up to 12 inches of snow where the bands stall.
Winds will gust between 30 and 40 mph, blowing powdery snow across exposed routes. Thin layers of snow on still-warm tarmac will create extremely slippery conditions, particularly dangerous for traffic.
"That’s a classic set-up for 12 inches where bands stall. Winds gusting 30–40 mph will whip powder across exposed routes. Just fast, white layers on still-warm tarmac — the worst kind for traction."
Author’s summary: A powerful winter storm is set to bring heavy snow, strong winds, and hazardous travel, demanding careful preparation to avoid disruption and danger.