Cornwall could see snow as weather warning gets updated

The Met Office is forecasting icy stretches and disruption to travel

Snow in Liskeard in December
Author: Sarah YeomanPublished 7th Jan 2021
Last updated 8th Jan 2021

Cornwall could see snow as an updated weather warning goes out.

The Met Office has issued an alert for ice and snow from 5pm on Thursday through until 11.59pm on Friday night.

Forecasters say icy stretches are likely to form, perhaps leading to some disruption to travel with snow falling for some places.

It is now in place for all of Cornwall and across the South West.

The yellow weather warning has been updated to make it a dual snow/ice warning with the area extended southwards across more of central and southwest England.

The warning end time has also been delayed until the end of Friday.

What to expect

Some injuries from slips and falls on icy surfaces

Probably some icy patches on some untreated roads, pavements and cycle paths

Some roads and railways likely to be affected with longer journey times by road, bus and train services

"Showers, a mixture of rain sleet and snow, are expected to fall onto frozen surfaces leading to icy stretches forming. In addition, a more persistent spell of rain and hill snow is likely to move south across northern England and north Wales during Thursday evening and night.

"This then gradually moving into parts of central and southwest England and southeast Wales on Friday. Whilst ice is expected to be the most widespread hazard, snow is likely in places too. Snow is most likely to fall over The Pennines, North York Moors and the high ground of Wales and southwest England, with 2-5 cm possible here.

"Elsewhere, whilst some snowfall is possible, accumulations are likely to be slight and temporary. Freezing fog patches are also likely to persist and may prove an additional hazard with areas of visibility less than 100 m at times."

Met Office

A level two cold weather alert is also in force across Cornwall and the South West.

This is triggered by the Met Office as soon as the risk is 60% or above for any of the thresholds to be breached.

Officials say it is an important stage for social and healthcare services who will be working to ensure readiness and swift action to reduce harm from a potential period of cold weather.

Advice from the Met Office:

"Prolonged periods of cold weather can be dangerous, especially for older people, those with underlying health conditions, and young children. If you’re able, ask if your friends, family or neighbours need any support. Stock up foods and medicines so you don’t have to go out too much when it’s cold or icy."

"When indoors, stay warm, heat homes to at least 18°C, and keep up-to-date with the weather forecast. If you want more information about how cold weather can affect your health please visit the NHS website. If you are concerned about your health or somebody you care for, advice can be obtained from NHS Winter Health, NHS or your local pharmacist."

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