Brits have been warned to stock up on essential supplies ahead Storm Bert this weekend, as the UK braces for 70mph winds and heavy rain.
There are eight Met Office weather warnings - including a severe amber one - in place across the UK on Saturday and Sunday as the second named storm of the season begins to arrive on Friday night.
Advice reportedly sent to British Gas customers includes a recommendation that people stockpile three days’ worth of food and water incase the weather disrupts travel and power.
It also urged people to keep a phone charger, torch and batteries nearby.
Jason Kelly, Met Office Chief Meteorologist, said: “Storm Bert is what we call a ‘multi-hazard event’, bringing snow, rain and wind to the UK for the majority of the weekend. Multiple National Severe Weather Warnings are in place and will be added to and amended over the weekend.
Key points
- Storm Bert to hit the UK this weekend, Met Office says
- Mapped: When and where Storm Bert will hit
- Rail disruption expected until Sunday
- Chance of power cuts, mobile phone outages for northern Scotland
- Heavy snow to fall over weekend
Britons warned to stock up on water and food ahead of heavy snow and wind
18:47
Athena Stavrou
Brits have been warned to stock up on essential supplies ahead Storm Bert this weekend, as the UK braces for 70mph winds and heavy rain.
There are eight Met Office weather warnings - including a severe amber one - in place across the UK on Saturday and Sunday as the second named storm of the season begins to arrive on Friday night.
Advice reportedly sent to British Gas customers includes a recommendation that people stockpile three days’ worth of food and water incase the weather disrupts travel and power.
It also urged people to keep a phone charger, torch and batteries nearby.
Heavy rain alert issued for Cork and Galway as Storm Bert to sweep across island
18:01
Jabed Ahmed
Several snow, wind and rain warnings have been issued for counties across the island of Ireland as Storm Bert is expected to land this weekend.
A status red warning has been issued for Galway and Cork on Saturday and there is a risk of flooding and difficult driving conditions in most counties from Friday night until Saturday afternoon.
After a cold snap during the week that created challenging road conditions in several parts of the country, people are now being asked to be aware of hazards on the road this weekend.
Falls of sleet and snow are possible in the north and north west overnight on Friday, forecasters Met Eireann said, as the storm tracks north west.
Flooding and gusty winds are the greater risk on Saturday, but will ease off in the mid-afternoon before more heavy rain moves in from the west.
A status red rain warning is in place for Cork and Galway from midnight until 10am on Saturday, with heavy rainfall expected in west Cork in particular.
Severe flooding, damage to homes and businesses, and dangerous road conditions are possible in those counties, Met Eireann have warned.
A status orange rain warning is in place for the same time period for counties Waterford, Kerry, Clare, Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim, creating a risk of river flooding, very difficult travelling conditions and poor visibility.
52,000 households likely to require help over weekend, say British Gas
17:01
Jabed Ahmed
British Gas are expecting to see up to 52,000 households require help this weekend with their heating and hot water systems, as temperatures are set to plummet.
Their engineers have urged homeowners to prepare in advance by carrying out simple tasks such as bleeding their radiators and having boilers serviced.
Other tips include carefully checking water pipes, arranging furniture for warmth and preparing your heating before bedtime.
How is climate change affecting snow in the UK?
16:31
Jabed Ahmed
In recent decades, the intensity and frequency of heavy snowfall in the UK has reduced, and is expected to further reduce in recent years.
Between 1961 to 1990, it snowed for an average of 36.3 days each year in the UK, which has since reduced to 23.7 leading up to 2010.
With colder temperatures and snowfall remaining in the forecast, what influence is climate change having on snow events in the UK?
— Met Office (@metoffice) November 21, 2024
In pictures: Snow continues to blanket parts of the UK
16:01
Jabed Ahmed
Storm Bert to bring ‘multi-hazard event’ to the UK following cold snap
15:27
Jabed Ahmed
The Met Office has issued several weather warnings as Storm Bert is set to bring a “multi-hazard event” to the UK following a cold snap.
The storm is expected to reach the UK on Saturday and the Met Office is expecting it to bring “heavy rain, strong winds and disruptive snow to parts of the UK through the weekend”, potentially causing travel disruption and flooding.
An amber alert for heavy snow and ice will be in force between 7am and 5pm on Saturday in an area north of Scotland’s central belt, where 10-20cm is likely on ground above 200 metres and potentially as much as 20-40cm on hills above 400 metres.
The warning covers parts of Angus, Perth and Kinross, Stirlingshire, Aberdeenshire and some of the Highlands and Argyll and Bute.
Meanwhile, yellow wind, rain and snow warnings cover much of the rest of the UK.
Wind warnings cover Scotland from 5am until 7pm on Saturday.
Rain and snow warnings cover northern England from 4am to 9am and Northern Ireland from midnight on Friday until 11am on Saturday. Rain warnings cover much of Wales from 6am on Saturday until 6am on Sunday, and south-west England from 6am on Saturday until 11.45pm.
A wind warning also covers coastal areas of southern England from 3pm until 9pm on Saturday.
Can and should you walk your dogs in the snow?
14:58
Jabed Ahmed
Met Office warn rainfall in excess of 100mm is possible
14:29
Jabed Ahmed
Met Office deputy chief meteorologist Dan Holley said: “Storm Bert marks a shift to much milder air and wintry hazards will gradually diminish through the weekend, but heavy snowfall is expected across parts of northern England and Scotland for a time on Saturday, especially over higher ground, and warnings are in place.
“Heavy rain through Saturday and Sunday, especially in southern and western parts of the UK, will also bring impacts for some with a number of warnings in place.
“We expect 50-75mm of rainfall quite widely within the warning areas, but in excess of 100mm is possible over high ground in parts of Wales and south-west England.
“In addition, rapid melting of lying snow over the weekend and periods of strong winds are likely to exacerbate impacts and bring the potential for travel disruption, as well as flooding for some.”
Drivers have been urged to be careful on the roads
13:59
Jabed Ahmed
The RAC urged people to take care on the roads.
RAC Breakdown spokeswoman Alice Simpson said: “The first taste of winter means drivers are suddenly contending with the some of the worst road conditions we’ve seen all year.
“With freezing temperatures already causing disruption in the east and north of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, and snow showers now affecting regions further south, we advise motorists to plan well as ice forms on untreated surfaces.”
Met Office issues danger to life warning as more snow forecast over weekend
13:01
Jabed Ahmed
Specialist officers join search on Lewis for missing teenager
12:38
Jabed Ahmed
Specialist officers have travelled from the mainland to help search for a teenager missing on Lewis for four days in wintry conditions.
Aleksandr Benga, 16, was last seen at around 8.45am on Monday November 18 close to the water wheel in the grounds of Lews Castle near Stornoway.
Police said they are “very concerned” for his welfare and urged people to check any outbuildings and sheds in case the teenager has sought shelter from the cold.
Specialist search officers from Aberdeen and Inverness have travelled to the island to help with the ongoing “extensive” searches, while support is also being provided by partner agencies.
The 16-year-old is 6ft 2in, of slim build with short brown hair.
When last seen he was wearing a beige jumper and black jeans and may also have a red jacket and a yellow beanie hat.
In pictures: Ships sail in rough seas ahead of Storm Bert
12:29
Jabed Ahmed
Chance of power cuts, mobile phone outages, and travel cancellations for northern Scotland
11:59
Jabed Ahmed
People in northern Scotland are being warned of a small chance of power cuts and mobile phone outages, as well as the potential for cancelled rail and air travel, due to the severe weather.
Under one of multiple yellow warnings issued by the Met Office for various parts of the UK, rural communities also face warnings of a “slight chance” they will be cut off.
The weather bureau is also warning residents in that region of risks of slips and falls on icy surfaces, as well as traffic disruptions due to Storm Bert moving over the UK through the coming days.
“There is a small chance of travel delays on roads with some stranded vehicles and passengers, along with delayed or cancelled rail and air travel,” the Met Office said.
Met Office issues new weather warnings
11:26
Jabed Ahmed
⚠️ Yellow weather warning issued ⚠️
— Met Office (@metoffice) November 22, 2024
Strong winds across southern England
Valid Saturday 1500 until Sunday 2100
Latest info https://t.co/QwDLMfRBfs
Stay #WeatherAware⚠️ pic.twitter.com/gg38z28Qw9
Tips for driving on icy roads
11:01
Jabed Ahmed
Some roads are expected to be icy this morning. Here are some tips for driving in ice from @TheRAC_UK and @NationalHways#WeatherReady pic.twitter.com/pClox8Mm55
— Met Office (@metoffice) November 22, 2024
Full list of UK school closures after snow and ice hit Scotland, England and Wales
10:46
Jabed Ahmed
Popular Christmas lights switch-on cancelled due to Storm Bert
10:31
Jabed Ahmed
A popular Christmas lights switch-on has been cancelled as the country prepares for Storm Bert.
The Christmas lights will not illuminate in Romsey, Hamshire, tomorrow, the town council has said.
A spokesperson said: “Don’t dismay as we have plenty more events in Romsey to look forward to, including our new Christmas Market event A Taste of Christmas Markets coming up on Saturday, December 7 from 10am to 6pm.”
National Energy Action responds to energy price cap announcement
10:01
Jabed Ahmed
National Energy Action Chief Executive Adam Scorer said: “Today's news that the price cap is rising by 1% will impact millions of vulnerable households. Bills are around 50% higher than pre crisis levels.
“With temperatures now plunging and far less support available many are getting deeper into debt trying to keep warm. Now we know there will be no let up into January and beyond. Targeted government support is essential to save millions from the misery and danger of a cold home.”
Met Office weekend forecast for Storm Bert
09:29
Jabed Ahmed
Met Office meteorologist Honor Criswick said: “Through into Friday… snow showers are set to continue mainly around coastal areas though once again still a few feeding inland at times.
“There will also still be plenty of autumnal sunshine. Still feeling cold though, particularly in those brisk winds – once again we’re only looking at highs of around 5C, slightly higher in the south west around 7C.
“Across the north those temperatures struggling to move past 2-3C.
“As we head into Friday evening, a change is on its way as we introduce Storm Bert moving its way in from the Atlantic. So we’ll see clouds spilling in from the south west with outbreaks of rain – heavy at times by the time we reach Saturday morning.”
Ms Criswick said there are likely to be “heavy” outbreaks of rain throughout Saturday, “falling as snow” at times across northern parts of England and parts of Scotland.
Age UK criticises new energy price cap as cold weather kicks in
08:58
Jabed Ahmed
Ofgem has confirmed household energy bills are to rise again from January 1 as it announced a 1.2% increase to its price cap.
Caroline Abrahams, charity director at Age UK, said: “Older people, struggling without their winter fuel payment, who were praying for a reduction in energy prices to help them in the New Year, will be bitterly disappointed today.
“The news that the energy price cap is instead slightly rising is the latest in a series of blows for pensioners living on a low or modest income, who do not receive Pension Credit because they don’t claim it or are not eligible.
“There are millions of older people in this situation and we know that many are hoping against hope that something will turn up to help ease their situation over the next few months, when the weather is at its coldest.
“If you are an older person for whom every penny counts, managing your energy bills until the rise in your State Pension starts coming through from April just got harder.”
More than 100 schools closed
08:32
Jabed Ahmed
The wintry weather has affected education, with more than 114 schools shut in the Highland Council area on Thursday because of snow, including Inverness Royal Academy where pupils were told their prelim exams planned for the day will be rescheduled.
Almost 40 schools in Aberdeenshire were also shut while many others had delayed openings and in Moray around 12 were closed and others opened late.
It comes after more than 100 schools or nurseries were closed in Scotland on Wednesday because of the weather.
South of the border, 89 schools were shut in Devon on Thursday, 18 in Dorset and 60 in Cornwall, while in Wales around 10 were closed in Conwy, 18 in Denbighshire and two in Wrexham.
Storm Bert map: When and where UK will be hit by 70mph winds and rain after Met Office issue weather warning
08:27
Jabed Ahmed
Latest weather warnings
07:56
Alexander Butler
A yellow rain warning is in place for much of southwest England between 6am Saturday and 11.45pm Sunday.
Further north, in Wales, a yellow rain warning with a risk to life is in place between 6am Saturday and 6am Sunday.
In Northern Ireland, a yellow rain and snow warning was issued between midnight on Saturday and 11am.
Across much of northern England and stretching up to the tip of Scotland, a rain and snow warning was issued between 4am Saturday and 9am Sunday.
Two yellow wind warnings are also in place between 5am and 7pm on Saturday. One stretches down the West coast and the other stretches down the East.
Meanwhile, an amber snow and ice warning was issued for the Scottish highlands between 7am and 5pm.
Amber alert issued for heavy snow and ice in parts of Scotland, with up to 40cm expected
07:18
Namita Singh
An amber alert for heavy snow and ice will be in force between 7am and 5pm on Saturday in an area north of Scotland’s central belt, where 10-20cm is likely on ground above 200 metres and potentially as much as 20-40cm on hills above 400m.
The warning covers parts of Angus, Perth and Kinross, Stirlingshire, Aberdeenshire and some of the Highlands and Argyll and Bute.
Britons wake from chilly night to warnings of snow and ice
07:18
Namita Singh
Many Britons again faced freezing temperatures overnight ahead of a frosty and icy morning today and the arrival of Storm Bert on the weekend.
The storm is set to reach the UK tomorrow and the Met Office is expecting it to bring “heavy rain, strong winds and disruptive snow to parts of the UK through the weekend”, potentially causing travel disruption and flooding.
Overnight, the Met Office said much of the UK experienced temperatures near freezing, with the mercury falling as low as -6C at Tulloch Bridge in Scotland.
The forecasting body said many will wake up to a frost with icy surfaces in places with several yellow warnings for snow and ice in place across the UK until 10am on today.
One covering parts of Scotland is in effect until midday before a slew of further yellow alerts for wind, rain and snow go live on Saturday.
Chance of power cuts, mobile phone outages, and travel cancellations for northern Scotland
07:00
Holly Evans
People in northern Scotland are being warned of a small chance of power cuts and mobile phone outages, as well as the potential for cancelled rail and air travel, due to the severe weather.
Under one of multiple yellow warnings issued by the Met Office for various parts of the UK, rural communities also face warnings of a “slight chance” they will be cut off.
The weather bureau is also warning residents in that region of risks of slips and falls on icy surfaces, as well as traffic disruptions due to Storm Bert moving over the UK through the coming days.
“There is a small chance of travel delays on roads with some stranded vehicles and passengers, along with delayed or cancelled rail and air travel,” the Met Office says.
UK weather: Storm Bert to bring snow, flooding and 70mph winds this weekend
06:00
Holly Evans
Britain is facing more snow, heavy rain and strong winds this weekend as Storm Bert sweeps across the country, with the Met Office warning that travel disruption and flooding are likely.
Weather warnings are in place every day until Sunday – including seven on Saturday – as the country braces for more wintry weather after temperatures plummeted earlier in the week.
An amber alert for heavy snow and ice will be in force between 7am and 5pm on Saturday in an area north of Scotland’s central belt, where 10-20cm is likely on ground above 200 metres and potentially as much as 20-40cm on hills above 400 metres.
Read the full article here:
In pictures: Heavy snow seen across Scotland and northern England
04:00
Holly Evans
Wintry weather sees schools shut
02:00
Holly Evans
Hundreds of schools are closed amid snowy conditions ahead of disruption forecast for the weekend as Storm Bert sweeps in.
A Met Office yellow warning of snow and ice is in place across northern Scotland until midday on Thursday, with 2-5cm of snow expected fairly widely.
A new alert has now been issued warning of snow and ice for much of Scotland, northern England and parts of western and eastern England and Wales between midday on Thursday and 10am on Friday.
Read the full article here:
Met Office issues danger to life warning as more snow forecast over weekend
00:00
Holly Evans
Heavy snow will continue to fall over the weekend as the Met Office warned of a danger to life in some parts of the country.
The deluge is expected on Saturday followed by a rapid thaw and rain in north-east and north-west England, the West Midlands, Yorkshire, and much of Scotland.
The Met Office has issued a number of weather warnings for the coming days, with residents urged to be prepared for power cuts as they are warned flooding from heavy rain could be pose a danger to life on Saturday night.
Read the full article here:
Drivers have been urged to be careful on the roads
Thursday 21 November 2024 23:00
Holly Evans
The RAC urged people to take care on the roads.
RAC Breakdown spokeswoman Alice Simpson said: “The first taste of winter means drivers are suddenly contending with the some of the worst road conditions we’ve seen all year.
“With freezing temperatures already causing disruption in the east and north of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, and snow showers now affecting regions further south, we advise motorists to plan well as ice forms on untreated surfaces.”
UK weather: Storm Bert to bring snow, flooding and 70mph winds this weekend
Thursday 21 November 2024 22:00
Holly Evans
Britain is facing more snow, heavy rain and strong winds this weekend as Storm Bert sweeps across the country, with the Met Office warning that travel disruption and flooding are likely.
Weather warnings are in place every day until Sunday – including seven on Saturday – as the country braces for more wintry weather after temperatures plummeted earlier in the week.
An amber alert for heavy snow and ice will be in force between 7am and 5pm on Saturday in an area north of Scotland’s central belt, where 10-20cm is likely on ground above 200 metres and potentially as much as 20-40cm on hills above 400 metres.
Read the full article here:
Met Office warn rainfall in excess of 100mm is possible
Thursday 21 November 2024 21:00
Holly Evans
Met Office deputy chief meteorologist Dan Holley said: “Storm Bert marks a shift to much milder air and wintry hazards will gradually diminish through the weekend, but heavy snowfall is expected across parts of northern England and Scotland for a time on Saturday, especially over higher ground, and warnings are in place.
“Heavy rain through Saturday and Sunday, especially in southern and western parts of the UK, will also bring impacts for some with a number of warnings in place.
“We expect 50-75mm of rainfall quite widely within the warning areas, but in excess of 100mm is possible over high ground in parts of Wales and south-west England.
“In addition, rapid melting of lying snow over the weekend and periods of strong winds are likely to exacerbate impacts and bring the potential for travel disruption, as well as flooding for some.”
Can and should you walk your dogs in the snow?
Thursday 21 November 2024 20:00
Holly Evans
Temperatures are dropping across the UK with snow weather warnings in place for parts of the country.
Temperatures dropped to minus 7.8C in Tulloch Bridge, Scotland, in the early hours of Monday, which is the lowest temperature the UK has seen since last winter.
Cold temperatures, ice and further snow feature on the forecast for the coming days in what the Met Office deemed is the country’s “first taste of winter”.With this news, many will be thinking about how this chilly weather may affect our pets.
It’s important to prepare our dogs, as well as ourselves, for this forecast.
Met Office’s five day weather forecast
Thursday 21 November 2024 19:00
Holly Evans
This Evening and Tonight:
A cold evening and night to come for much of the UK. A widespread frost developing, along with icy stretches. Sleet and snow showers will continue to move southwards, leading to further snow accumulations in places, mainly in the north.
Friday:
Another frosty and in places icy start on Friday with sunshine and wintry showers continuing in exposed areas. Showers and winds gradually easing through the afternoon.
Outlook for Saturday to Monday:
Turning wet and windy for all on Saturday, with some hill snow initially, and blustery showers on Sunday and Monday. Milder on Saturday and Sunday but cooler again into Monday.