The Met Office has warned that there could be a “dangerous phenomenon” of freezing rain as Amber weather alerts for snow and ice have been issued for the region.
They have also warned that parts of Northern England could get up to 30-40cm of snow this weekend.
Snow will accumulate through the evening on Saturday, according to the Met Office, and will continue to fall on Sunday too. But the snow could turn to rain in the region, which means there is a risk of freezing rain, a “dangerous weather phenomenon” which sees rain freezing instantly when it reaches the surface causing dangerous icy conditions.
Met Office Chief Forecaster Jason Kelly, said: “This weekend will bring a range of weather hazards to the UK, notable snow accumulations, freezing rain, ice and heavy rain as well as some gusty conditions.
“We have issued a number of severe weather warnings, including Amber warnings for snow and ice in parts of England and Wales. Some significant accumulations of snow are possible across parts of northern England, Wales, the Midlands in particular, where 5 cm or more could accumulate fairly widely. This, accompanied by strengthening winds, may lead to drifting of lying snow.”
As milder air moves northwards, snow may turn to freezing rain for a period of time. Jason added: “There is a risk of freezing rain across parts of the Midlands and northern England, but especially Wales, adding to the risk of ice and leading to some treacherous conditions in places. As the supercooled rain droplets hit the surface they instantly freeze, covering everything in a layer of ice, making it extremely dangerous.”
National Highways England has also issued a warning to drivers about travelling this weekend. National Highways Severe Weather Resilience Manager, Darren Clark, said: “If you are travelling this weekend, keep your distance and reduce your speed. Gritters will be out treating our roads around the clock when ice or snow is forecast, but it is still important to drive to the conditions.
“Even in conditions that seem normal and where the snow is not settling you could always experience slippery conditions.
“Drivers should plan their journeys, check their vehicles, monitor weather reports and pack a snow kit of blankets, food, water and a shovel.”
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