News release at
http://www.metoffice.co.uk
15 March 2007
Arctic winds set to bring a wintry spell
Forecasters at the Met Office are warning of a marked change to very cold weather for early next week as Arctic winds bring a sharp drop in temperature and a risk of snow to some areas of the UK.
Northern and exposed western and eastern parts of the UK are most at risk of seeing the snow, with 5 cm possible at low levels. Upland areas of Scotland could see up to 30 cm of snow. The snow may lead to some disruption in the worst affected areas. Daytime temperatures have recently been as high as 19 °C across southern England, next week southern England will have daytime highs of 7 °C with around 4 °C in Glasgow.
Nick Grahame, Chief Forecaster at the Met Office, said, "The snow showers will be heavy in places and the strong northerly winds will make for difficult conditions at times. Melting snow may refreeze at night, with frost and ice being an additional hazard for some."
The wintry weather may lead to difficult driving conditions in the affected areas and motorists should check the latest weather forecast when making their travel plans.
Those with a keen weather interest may wish to see the Met Office Chief Forecaster's commentary.