Snow and Ice Disrupt Schools as Storm Bert Approaches


 Snow and Ice Disrupt Schools as Storm Bert Approaches

16 hours ago

Heavy snowfall across parts of the UK has caused widespread disruption, with forecasters warning of further challenges as Storm Bert looms.

Over 100 schools in the Scottish Highlands and 30 in north Wales have been forced to close, while nearly 200 schools in Devon and Cornwall have shut or partially closed due to the wintry conditions.

Yellow weather warnings for snow and ice remain in place across parts of the UK until Friday. Additional warnings for rain and snow will come into effect over the weekend as Storm Bert, the second named storm of the season, is set to bring severe weather on Saturday.



Storm Bert's Impact

Named by Ireland's Met Éireann, Storm Bert is expected to bring heavy rain, snow, and strong winds. Gusts of 40-60 mph (65-96 km/h) are anticipated in many areas, with speeds of up to 70 mph along Irish Sea coasts.



The Met Office has warned of potential travel disruption and flooding, particularly in Wales and south-west England, where more than 100mm of rainfall is expected. Yellow weather warnings for snow and ice remain in effect for Northern Ireland, Scotland, and parts of England and Wales, with an amber warning issued for areas in the Highlands, Perth and Kinross, and Angus.



Transport and Safety Concerns

The adverse weather has already impacted travel. Police in Devon and Cornwall reported numerous collisions due to icy roads and urged drivers to exercise caution. Train services in the region have also been disrupted.

The AA has warned motorists to check forecasts and drive with "extreme caution," predicting a "major increase" in breakdown callouts. In Inverness, bus services were suspended to ensure passenger and driver safety.



Snowfall Across the UK

On Thursday, heavy snow blanketed parts of Devon, Cornwall, Dartmoor, and Exmoor, with lower elevations also seeing significant accumulation. Snowfall persisted in northern Scotland and extended to north Wales and north-west England overnight.

Temperatures plummeted on Wednesday night, with Tyndrum in Scotland recording -10°C, while Topcliffe in North Yorkshire hit -8.7°C, making it England's coldest autumn night so far. Northern Ireland experienced its coldest autumn night at -3.9°C in Katesbridge.



Health and Cold Weather Support

An amber cold weather alert, the first of the season, remains in effect for much of England until 18:00 on Saturday. Vulnerable groups face increased health risks due to the freezing temperatures.

Eligible households may qualify for cold weather payments, government benefits designed to help with fuel costs during prolonged periods of extreme cold. In Scotland, Winter Heating Payments are available for those meeting specific criteria. Residents in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland can check their eligibility online.


Looking Ahead

The severe weather is expected to continue into the weekend, with widespread frost and icy conditions overnight. Forecasters warn that the worst of Storm Bert will bring further disruption as it sweeps across the UK.

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