Storm Bert, named by Ireland’s Met Éireann, is set to bring severe weather to parts of the UK this weekend. Forecasters predict heavy snow, rain, strong winds, and icy conditions, prompting warnings from the Met Office and local authorities.
Weather Alerts and Impact Areas
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for snow and ice, covering areas including:
- Scotland: Angus, Perth and Kinross, Stirlingshire, Aberdeenshire, parts of the Highlands, and Argyll and Bute.
- Other Regions: West Wales, northwest England, coastal northeast England, and Northern Ireland will also face strong winds and heavy rain.
Key Weather Predictions
- Snow and Ice: Scotland is expected to receive significant snowfall, reaching lower levels in some areas. Overnight temperatures will dip below freezing, increasing the risk of icy roads and travel delays.
- Heavy Rain: Parts of Wales and Southwest England could see up to 100 mm of rainfall, heightening the risk of flooding.
- Strong Winds: Gusts of up to 70 mph (113 km/h) are anticipated in affected regions.
Travel Disruptions and Safety Warnings
- School Closures: Over 100 schools in Scotland and nearly 200 in Devon and Cornwall have already closed due to adverse weather conditions.
- Motorist Warnings: Drivers are urged to check forecasts before traveling and to exercise extreme caution on icy and snow-covered roads.
- Incidents: Devon and Cornwall Police have reported multiple collisions caused by hazardous road conditions.
Expert Insights
Met Office Chief Meteorologist Matthew Lehnert stated:
“A northerly airflow will continue to feed snow showers into Scotland over the next few days, with this reaching lower levels at times and bringing the potential for some travel disruption. Overnight temperatures will drop below zero fairly widely over the next few days, which has resulted in some ice warnings, with further warnings likely through this week.”
Preparation and Response
Authorities recommend monitoring updates and following advice to stay safe during Storm Bert’s impact. Further weather warnings may be issued as conditions develop.