thedailyrecord--2019-02-08--Wet and windy weather warning for West Dunbartonshire

Drivers are being warned to be cautious when out and about today and tomorrow as Storm Erik hits West Dunbartonshire, Argyll and Bute.  The Met Office issued a yellow weather warnings for wind and rain covering much of the western half of the country as well as the central Highlands.  Inspector David Hynd said: "The Met Office has issued a weather warning for rain and that conditions for travel may be hazardous due to rain and extra caution should be exercised."  Additional care should be taken on the Erskine Bridge.  Appeal for information as abandoned cat recovers in Dumbarton shelter  Inspector Hynd added: "If you are driving a vehicle which may be vulnerable to being blown over in such conditions along exposed routes including bridges, please exercise additional caution and plan your route to avoid exposed areas or consider cancelling your journey until conditions improve.  "Previous incidents have clearly shown the dangers of driving vehicles vulnerable to being blown over in high wind conditions and the subsequent danger created for other road users, emergency services and recovery operatives where incidents have occurred due to drivers ignoring warnings.  Dumbarton schoolgirl reunited with heroes who rescued her after horror car crash       "If you are travelling you should ensure you and your vehicle are adequately prepared for the conditions making sure you have sufficient fuel and supplies such as warm clothing, food and water in the event you are delayed for several hours. Charge your mobile phone and plan your route as well as alternative routes.       "Listen to media broadcasts especially local radio and Traffic Scotland Radio or visit  www.trafficscotland.org . For public transport information visit  www.travelinescotland . Follow @policescotland and @trafficscotland on Twitter for regular and up to date travel information."  For more local news, click here


thedailyrecord--2019-02-11--East Kilbride commuters face icy conditions as weather warning remains in place

Motorists are being urged to be careful on the roads as icy weather grips the nation.  Commuters from East Kilbride are being asked to check weather and traffic reports before hitting the roads.  That’s as sub-zero temperatures took hold of the area last night, with many areas this morning still experiencing freezing conditions.  A number of incidents and delays have already been highlighted on the M74 and M77, with some delays expected – despite some schools being off for the week.  On the M77, Traffic Scotland are reporting restrictions on the Northbound carriageways from Newton Mearns, Darnley and Barrhead Road.  Motorists are being told to expect some heavy traffic and congestion because of slow moving vehicles.  On the M74, delays are being reported at the Polmadie slip-road, Daldowie to Maryville, the Raith interchange, and Fullarton Road.  Meanwhile, ScotRail are reporting a ‘good service,’ with rail commuters being told they can expect a decent service heading to Glasgow Central.  The cold weather will hang around for much of the morning, making for slippery and greasy conditions on the road and pavements.  Underfoot for anyone walking this morning – with road users being told to be wary of ice on some untreated roads, pavements and cycle paths.  The Met Office’s yellow weather warning for icy conditions is still in place and temperatures will remain close to freezing if not in the minuses till after 10am.  The A726 Eaglesham bypass, leading to the M77 is, is currently operating as normal as is Redwood Drive and Queensway, leading onto the East Kilbride Expressway.  However, motorists heading along Floors Road towards Waterfoot and Clarkston are being advised of diversions because of road closures for surface repairs.  Scottish Water works continue on Melbourne Avenue until February 28 – alternative route is via Westwood Road, The Murray Road and Westwood Hill.  If you’re aware of any road incidents, contact the EK News team on 01698 205 200, tag us on Facebook or Tweet us @EKilbrideNews.


thedailyrecord--2019-03-13--Storm Gareth weather warning remains in place as drivers face commuter chaos on Scots roads

Storm Gareth   is affecting roads across Scotland this morning with high winds and heavy rain battering the country.  A yellow weather warning for wind has been issued by the Met Office which has been extended from midday on Wednesday until 3pm and forecasters are warning of danger to life.  A Met Office statement said: "There is small chance that injuries and danger to life could occur from large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties".  Commuters have been warned that Storm Gareth will continue to bring severe gales and heavy showers during this morning's rush hour.  Travel on Tuesday was disrupted when waves battered power lines at Saltcoats, causing services between Kilwinning & Ardrossan/Largs to be cancelled.  ScotRail tweeted dramatic footage of the moment spray from the seas caused lines to trip and spark.  The strong northwesterly winds could reach up to 80mph in some parts of the country.  As a result of the gusts there could be disruption to rail and bus services with some journeys cancelled or severely delayed.  There could also be delays for high-sided vehicles on exposed routes with some bridges being forced to close.  There is a possibility that power cuts may occur, mobile phone coverage could be affected, and heavy rain could bring localised flooding.  The yellow warning for wind will cover a small part of the south west and the islands, however forecasters predicted the gusts could move north throughout the day.


thedailyrecord--2019-03-15--Weather warning for East Kilbride as the town prepares for Storm Hannah snow blast

East Kilbride is set to be impacted by heavy snow this weekend.  The yellow weather warning will be in place tomorrow (March 16) from 4am until 9pm.  The Met Office warning states that "a spell of snow may bring some travel disruption, especially over higher ground."  They add that there is a "small chance of significant travel delays on roads" with some "stranded vehicles and passengers, along with delayed or cancelled rail and air travel."  The largest snowfall amounts will be confined to higher ground, with the potential for 10-20 cm of snow above 350m.  Between 100m and 350m elevation, a mixture of rain, sleet and snow is more likely, but there is potential for accumulations of 2-5cm, and a small chance of 10cm should the precipitation be heavy enough to maintain snow for a longer duration.  Additionally, motorists are warned today by Traffic Scotland to take care on the roads when driving between Glasgow and East Kilbride.  Following spells of heavy rain, surface water is affecting driving conditions.


thedailyrecord--2019-03-16--Weather warning for Pest from the West as Arctic blast hits Scotland

Weather warning for 'Pest from the West' as Arctic blast hits Scotland

It's no Beast From the East but the Pest from the West is expected to batter Scotland with wintry weather today.  Up to four inches of snow will fall on higher ground, with a mix of rain and snow at lower levels – all driven by gusts of up to 65mph.  Forecasters said the most intense period would be between 4am and 9am but bad weather will cause problems across the weekend.  Police say conditions will be “hazardous” and urged drivers to take care.  They said supplies of food and warm clothing should be brought by those choosing to travel.  It’s part of a yellow weather warning which lasts until 9pm tonight.  Forecaster Matthew Box said: “We have a developing low pressure that’s going to pass across the northern half of the UK and it’s going to bring some disruptive weather.  “That weather will be a mixture essentially of rain, sleet and hill snow for a time, and some strong winds.”


thedailyrecord--2019-03-16--Weather warning for Scots drivers after snow and flooding chaos on M77 and M8

A blast of wintry weather will affect most parts of the UK this weekend with snow already causing problems for travellers in Scotland.  A Met Office yellow warning for snow is in place until Saturday night for much of Scotland, Northern Ireland and the north east of England, while wind and rain are forecast for Wales with high winds expected on the south coast.  As much as 10cm of snow could fall on higher ground, according to forecasters.  Police Scotland issued a warning to motorists as road conditions worsened on Saturday morning.  A statement said: "There is a yellow weather warning in place for many parts of the country today and many areas are waking up to wintry weather conditions.  "Take care on the roads and be prepared for your journey. Slow down and drive to the conditions."  Several cars were involved in an accident on the M77 southbound at the Maidenhill exit slip near Newton Mearns , while part of the M8 was flooded at Paisley .  No one was seriously injured.  Met Office meteorologist Luke Miall said: "We've got quite a few weather warnings in place for today across the UK.  "In Scotland we are likely to see a good covering of snow above 200 metres or so where we could see 2cm to 6cm and perhaps as much as 10cm above 400 metres.  "It's mainly higher ground but that will affect some of the routes that travel across the Highlands and central parts of Scotland.  "The other warning we have in force is for wind and that covers pretty much everywhere from north-west England down through Wales and then southern counties of England including London.  "Here we will see some pretty strong winds through the day gusting 45mph to 55mph quite widely within that area."  He said exposed and coastal areas could see gusts as high as 65mph.  He added: "The reason for all this is we have an area of low pressure which is moving its way in and that will continue crossing Northern Ireland and parts of southern Scotland."  Heavy snow also fell in parts of Northumberland overnight covering part of the A1 at Alnwick.  Temperatures will vary throughout the UK from around 12C to 13C in the south while some areas of Scotland will struggle to get above freezing, Mr Miall said.  A yellow warning for ice extends into the early hours of Sunday.


thedailyrecord--2019-04-03--Snow and gales for Scotland as forecasters issue severe weather warning

Hill snow and sleet have hit parts of the country as the wintry start to spring continues.  Temperatures dipped below freezing across the board overnight and are expected to remain in single figures for most of Wednesday.  Forecasters said a deep area of low pressure was centred over the UK, bringing with it the potential to drive showers and produce long spells of wet and changeable weather.  Met Office meteorologist Mark Wilson said: "In the north of the UK there will be more persistent rain and hill snow today, particularly on higher ground in southern Scotland and northern England.  "There is a weather warning in force in those areas for until 10 o'clock.  "There could be some snow to lower levels, but essentially it's a high-ground feature and it could cause some localised disruption over high routes."  Parts of Cumbria, Northumberland and Durham were in the warning area in England, while north of the border it covered parts of Dumfries and Galloway, East and West Lothian, East Ayrshire and South Lanarkshire.  Up to 5cm of snow could accumulate above 200m and up to 10cm above 400m, the Met Office said.  The band of rain and hill snow will push eastwards through Wednesday, while Scotland and Northern Ireland are expected to see strong winds with coastal gales.  There will be sunshine and some rain for the southern and western parts, although showers are forecast to be heavy with hail and thunder mixed in.  Temperatures will remain on the cold side, with around 5C or 6C the maximum for many and 10C expected in the south-east.  Little change in the conditions is expected for Thursday, although the focus for most of the showers will be in the south-west of the UK.  Hill snow will persist across high areas in the north, while in the south-west some drier and brighter weather is expected to arrive.  There is an improving picture towards the end of the week, with brighter, drier and warmer conditions expected for many parts on Friday and into the weekend.


thedailyrecord--2019-04-03--Yellow weather warning for East Kilbride as snow showers hit town

East Kilbride will be impacted by snow showers this morning.  A yellow weather warning is place for the Strathclyde area today from 3am until 10am.  The Met Office warning states that there will be "some snow on Wednesday morning, mainly affecting high ground".  They add that "some roads and railways likely to be affected with longer journey times by road, bus and train service".  However there are no problems currently affecting rail commuters travelling between East Kilbride and Glasgow Central with Scotrail reporting a "good service".  The largest snowfall amounts will be confined to higher ground, with the potential for 5-10 cm of snow above 400m.  Between 2-5 cm of snow may accumulate above 200m with a mixture of rain, sleet and snow more likely.  Motorists are being warned by Traffic Scotland to take care on the roads when driving between Glasgow and East Kilbride.  Surface water is affecting driving conditions following long spells of heavy rain.


thedailyrecord--2019-06-21--Thunderstorm to hit Scotland as danger to life weather warning issued for Sunday and Monday

Thunderstorm to hit Scotland as 'danger to life' weather warning issued for Sunday and Monday

A Severe thunderstorm is set to sweep in on Sunday night into Monday morning, the Met Office is warning.  A yellow weather warning has been issued for most of Scotland, including Glasgow , Aberdeenshire, Highlands, Dundee , Stirling and Edinburgh.  The Met Office is predicting heavy thundery rainfall especially on Monday, which may lead to flooding, serious travel disruption and danger to life.  Most of southern Scotland will be affected from late on Sunday around 9pm, it will then move northwards across central and eastern Scotland through Monday.  Up to 50mm of rain could fall in a 12-18 hour period which could bring extensive flooding damage to homes and businesses.  Driving conditions will be dangerous on most roads, and commuters could face long delays and cancellations to bus and rail services as a result.  The yellow weather warning is in place from 9pm on Sunday to midnight on Monday, June 24.


thedailyrecord--2019-06-29--Scotland weather warning as lightning thunder and flash flooding expected

Scotland weather warning as lightning, thunder and flash flooding expected

Thunder, lightning, severe downpours, flash flooding and even HAILSTONES are expected to hit parts of Scotland on Saturday evening.  The sunshine bathing Scotland for the past few days has vanished for most areas with rain showers and cooler conditions taking over for large parts of the country on Saturday.  And the weather will take another turn for the worse this evening with the Met Office issuing a severe weather warning for thunderstorms.  The storm front is expected to hit south-east Scotland at around 6pm with the weather warning lasting until midnight and stretching up to the Edinburgh area, which saw flash flooding earlier this week during torrential downpours.  As well as the danger of more flooding and lightning strikes, the Met Office say there could even be hailstones with drivers urged to be wary of the conditions.  While parts of Scotland are set to be hit with heavy rain , England was sun-soaked again on Saturday with a new UK record temperature set for 2019.  The Met Office said readings of 33C (91.4F) were taken at Heathrow on Saturday afternoon.  Friday's reading of 30C (86F) at Achnagart in the Highlands was the previous record for this year.


thedailyrecord--2019-07-26--Yellow weather warning for rain as temperatures plummet after heatwave

Scotland has been enjoying basking in glorious sunshine over the last few days, but that's all about to change tomorrow.  The Met Office is reporting heavy rainfall across Strathclyde, south west and central Scotland over the weekend.  The yellow weather warning for rain is in place from 9am on Saturday, July 27 to 3pm on Sunday.  In places there could be flooding with slight delays to train and bus services as a result.  The warning reads: "An area of rain is expected to move slowly and erratically northwestwards across parts of the UK on Saturday and Sunday, and while some places within the warning area may see very little others could see several hours of heavy rain.  "Accumulations of 40-60mm are possible, with perhaps as much as 80-100mm in places, especially over high ground."  It's changed days from the 30C we all experienced yesterday. We better look out the jumpers and umbrellas as temperature will fall to as low as 18C.


thedailyrecord--2019-07-29--Why you shouldnt use the bathroom during thunderstorms as Scotland hit with fresh weather warnings

Why you shouldn't use the bathroom during thunderstorms as Scotland hit with fresh weather warnings

Scotland is facing yet more miserable summer weather with thunderstorms and heavy rain due today.  The Met Office has issued two yellow warnings for the northwest today and most of the country on Wednesday.  The first warning starts from noon today, running until 9pm tonight and includes Inverness and the Highlands.  On Wednesday, the warning runs from midnight for 24 hours and covers large areas of Scotland including the Borders, Central Belt and Highlands.  With all this stormy weather on the way, it's vital to be aware of how to stay safe.  You can tell how close a storm is by listening to the thunder. If you hear the clouds rumbling, chances are you're close enough to be hit by lightning which can strike up to 10 miles away from the centre of a storm, reports Liverpool Echo .  The best advice is to count the seconds between seeing lightning and hearing thunder - if it is less than 30 seconds, there is a danger.  Here's a full list of what steps to take to protect yourself - and the things you definitely shouldn't do in a storm.  • Before the storm hits, make sure you unplug all non-essential appliances, including the television, as lightning can cause power surges.  • If outside, avoid water and find a low-lying open place that is a safe distance from trees, poles or metal objects. Try to find shelter, but avoid sheltering near any of these objects.  • If you find yourself in an exposed location, it's best to squat close to the ground, with your hands on your knees and your head tucked between them. Try to touch as little of the ground with your body as possible, do not lie down on the ground.  • If you feel your hair stand on end, it means lightning is about to strike and you should drop into the brace position immediately.  • Bring your pets inside. Being in the house is the best option for every member of your family, pets included.  • Avoid using taps and sinks. Metal pipes can conduct electricity.  • Don't make landline phone calls unless it's an emergency . Telephone lines can conduct electricity.  • Don't take a shower. For the same reason you should avoid taps and sinks, a bolt can travel through water pipes and electrify you.  • Don't put up an umbrella if you're caught in a storm. The metal could direct the current into your body.  • Don't go outside too soon after a thunderstorm. It's best to wait until at least 30 minutes after you see the last flash of lightning.  • Avoid activities such as golf or fishing, if you were tempted to go out and do them in a thunderstorm.

reporters@dailyrecord.co.uk (Emilia Bona, Nina Glencross)


thedailyrecord--2019-08-02--Heavy showers and thunderstorms forecast for Sunday as yellow weather warning issued

Scots are once again asked to brace themselves for further thunderstorms on Sunday.  The Met Office is reporting heavy showers and thunder on Sunday afternoon from 12 noon through to midnight.  Transport disruption is expected as well as localised flooding.  The yellow weather warning reads: "Scattered heavy showers and thunderstorms are likely to develop across Scotland and northern England during Sunday afternoon into the evening.  "The nature of showers means that the exact location of where impacts occur is uncertain. However, showers may become slow-moving over some locations and could receive 30-40 mm of rainfall in one or two hours."  The latest warning comes after a week of unsettled, yet warm weather, across the country.


thedailyrecord--2019-08-04--Weather warning for Scotland as thunderstorms and flooding expected to hit today

A weather warning has been put in place for most of Scotland this afternoon as thunderstorms and more rain are expected to hit.  The Met Office issued the yellow warning with flash flooding also expected to affect homes and businesses.  Torrential downpours are expected between 1pm and midnight tonight with strong winds, hail and lightning also likely to hit.  Fast flowing and deep floodwater is possible which could lead to a danger to life, the Met Office said.  The SEPA has also issued flood alerts for 15 areas of Scotland.  Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen City, Argyll and Bute, Ayrshire and Arran, Central, Dumfries and Galloway, Dundee and Angus, Easter Ross and Great Glen, Edinburgh and Lothians, Fife, Moray and Speyside, the Borders, Syke, Tayside, West Central Scotland and Wester Ross have all been put on alert by the environment agency.  A SEPA statement read: "Heavy and thundery showers are likely to develop in the area through Sunday afternoon and evening.  "Thunderstorms are intense, localised, hard to predict and their flooding impacts vary.  "Due to the very localised nature of flooding from thunderstorms, your specific area may not be impacted by this. If your area is affected by a heavy thundery shower, this may lead to localised flooding from surface water and small watercourses.  "The greatest risk is if these occur over built-up areas and the transport network and possible impacts could include: flooding of low-lying land, roads, properties and disruption to travel."  There is also expected to be delays on the roads, trains and ferries as a result of the extreme weather.  The Met Office has said some rural communities may even be cut off if there are power outages.  A statement from the agency said: "Fast flowing or deep floodwater is possible, causing a danger to life.  "Where flooding or lightning strikes occur, there is a chance of delays and some cancellations to train and bus services."


thedailyrecord--2019-12-02--Heavy rain to batter Scotland as forecasters issue 18-hour weather warning

Heavy rain is expected to batter large parts of Scotland this week.  Forecasters have issued an 18-hour yellow weather warning from 6am on Thursday to midday on Friday, December 6.  Met Office experts are anticipating persistent heavy rain which could lead to localised flooding in the Highlands.  Areas expected to be affected by the heavy showers include Fort William , Tobermory, Portree and Ullapool.  A spokesperson for the Met Office said: “Persistent heavy rain followed by showers are likely to produce some localised flooding and travel disruption.  “Bus and train services probably affected with journey times taking longer.  “Spray and flooding on roads probably making journey times longer.  “Some minor interruptions to power supplies and other services are possible.”


thedailyrecord--2019-12-05--Weather warning as torrential rain and gale-force winds to batter Scotland

The Met Office has issued a weather warning for much of Scotland with heavy rain and strong winds expected to batter parts of the country.  The Yellow Warning is in place from between 6am today until noon tomorrow as experts warn persistent heavy rain followed by showers are likely to produce some localised flooding and travel disruption.  Forecasters say: "Blustery showers will turn to more persistent rain on Thursday morning, turning heavy at times and continuing for the rest of the day.  "The rain will be accompanied by gale force southwesterly winds, with potential for gusts of 55-65 mph around coasts and hills.  "The rain will turn more showery overnight though further heavy and prolonged showers are likely on Friday morning.  "40-60 mm of rainfall is expected widely across the warning area, but nearer 70-80 mm over the West Highlands and a few prone mountain locations could exceed 100 mm within a 30 hour period."  Central Scotland, Tayside and Fife, the Highlands and Eilean Siar and Strathclyde will all be affected.  The Met Office advise we can expect: • Bus and train services probably affected with journey times taking longer • Spray and flooding on roads probably making journey times longer • Some minor interruptions to power supplies and other services are possible  The Scottish Environment Protection Agency warn of potential surface water flooding, affecting traffic and travel: "A band of persistent and heavy rain will affect Western parts of Scotland on Thu followed by heavy wintry showers on Fri."


thedailyrecord--2019-12-08--Weather warning issued for Scotland as Met Office warn of torrential rain

Scotland will be battered by heavy rainfall next week as a weather warning has been issued for large parts of the country.  The Met Office has put a yellow severe warning in place from 6am to 3pm on Tuesday, December 10 for the majority of the west coast.  As a result, bus and rail services are likely to be affected with journey times expected to take longer.  Flooding is also expected to be an issue due to persistent rain over the course of the day.  It's believed around 60mm of rain could fall as strong winds of up to 60mph will batter coastal areas.  The yellow weather warning will affect Central, Tayside, Fife, the Highlands and Islands, south west Scotland, Lothian Borders and Strathclyde.  A Met Office statement read: "Rain, heavy at times will cross Scotland during Tuesday accompanied by strong and gusty winds.  "Rainfall accumulations widely 20 to 40mm locally 60mm over high ground of western Scotland.  "Much of the rainfall will occur in a short time period.  "Winds will gust widely 40 to 50mph inland with 60mph possible in coastal areas."


thedailyrecord--2019-12-10--Weather warning in place for Dumbarton and Alexandria for heavy rain and wind

Two weather warnings are in place for West Dunbartonshire this morning.  Several parts of the UK are set to be battered by Storm Brendan today, including a large area of west central Scotland.  The Met Office forecasts strong winds, which may cause disruption, with a yellow weather warning in place until 5pm.  A second warning for rain has been issued, which will be in place until 3pm.  The Met office advise of potential travel disruption as a result of the severe weather.  SEPA are also advising: "Heavy rain coming in from the west overnight is likely to cause difficult driving conditions for morning rush hour.  "Continued rain will mean a risk of localised flooding of low lying land and isolated properties."  Scotland Transerv tweeted: "Whether you’re in #Balloch, #Stanraer, #Annan, #Dumfries or #Dumbarton, there’s plenty of surface water and spray on SW Scotland’s trunk roads today. Pls #DriveAware and follow @trafficscotland for live updates."


thedailyrecord--2019-12-14--Met Office weather warnings for ice, snow and floods issued across Scotland as temperatures set to p

Met Office weather warnings for ice, snow and floods issued across Scotland as temperatures set to plummet tonight

A cold weather warning has been issued for Scotland with freezing temperatures set to grip the country over night.  Icy and snowy conditions have been forecast for tonight with more rain expected along with snow in higher areas.  The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for ice across large areas of the central belt with potentially dangerous road conditions and travel chaos also expected.  The cold chill is expected to set in at 9pm tonight, with the warning in place until 11am on Sunday, December 15.  A Met Office spokesperson said: "There will be icy patches, with snow likely on mainly higher level routes, which could cause tricky travel.  "Some roads and railways are also likely to be affected with longer journey times expected.  "We urge people to be cautious as icy surfaces may make accidents and falls more likely.  "A spell of rain and hill snow is likely to affect many areas, with skies clearing at times to allow icy surfaces, although these won't affect all places.  "The snow is most likely above 200 metres elevation and probably focused in the north Pennines and into parts of Scotland; here it could affect a few lower lying areas."  Areas in Scotland that will feel the impact of the icy conditions are Glasgow , Edinburgh , Perth, Dundee, Dumfries and Galloway and parts of Ayrshire.  Flood warnings are also in place for the west coast - particularly between Ayr and Troon.  Sunday should see drier weather return but with patchy showers also a strong possibility across the country.


thedailyrecord--2019-12-15--Fresh yellow weather warning for ice issued across Scotland as temperatures plummet

A new weather warning for ice has been issued for Scotland following a weekend gripped by freezing temperatures.  The Met Office has put a yellow warning in place from 3am until 10.30am on Monday morning, affecting commuters heading into work.  Forecasters are predicting icy patches on some untreated roads, pavements and cycle paths, making injuries or accidents more likely.  The warning will affect much of Scotland's central, including Glasgow, Edinburgh and Stirling, as well as almost all of the Borders.  Heavy rain is expected to move in from the north west overnight tonight, with a chance of wet snow in Glasgow on Monday morning.  A Met Office statement read: "Areas of rain and hill snow seem likely to affect many areas for a time tonight, probably clearing by morning and allowing temperatures to dip more widely below zero.  "Icy stretches may be encountered, especially on untreated surfaces, while the odd high level road may see a further 1-2 cm of snow."  It comes after the country was battered with heavy wind and rain on Saturday, with a flood warning being issued from Ayr to Troon in Ayrshire.  A yellow warning for ice had also been put in place for other parts of Scotland over Saturday night and into Sunday morning.  Monday looks mainly settled but chilly for most parts of the country, with clear skies in the capital bring temperatures down to around 5 degress.  The mercury is set to sit similarly in Dundee and Aberdeen, while Glasgow could be in for more wet weather, particularly in the morning.  While the forecast for Christmas is still unclear, Met Office forecaster Matthew Box thinks a low pressure system could bring unsettled windy weather followed by "crisper" and more settled weather.  "Whether we see an unsettled windy and wet Christmas or a dry and perhaps sunny Christmas Day remains to be seen," he said.


thedailyrecord--2019-12-18--Scots gear up for 70pmh gusts as Met Office issues yellow weather warning

Scots are gearing up for winds of up to 70mph after the Met Office issued a weather warning for much of the UK.  The yellow weather warning has been put in place for Wednesday and Thursday.  Western parts of the country will be the worst affected, including North Ayrshire, South Ayrshire and Strathclyde.  A statement from Met Office forecasters read: "Some coastal routes, sea fronts and coastal communities are likely to be affected by spray and/or large waves, especially for south and southeast facing coastlines.  "There will be some delays to road, rail, air and ferry transport.  "Delays for high-sided vehicles on exposed routes and bridges are also likely.  "Some short term loss of power and other services are possible."  Met Office forecaster Alex Burkill told the PA news agency that the rough weather is expected to ease off by next week.  "Calmer weather is coming, with temperatures rising over the next couple of days in the build-up to Christmas," he said.  "Christmas Day will most likely be cold and dry with milder than average conditions expected."


aljazeera--2019-11-13--Italy's Venice flooded by highest tide in 50 years

Venice was hit by the highest tide in more than 50 years late on Tuesday, with tourists wading through flooded streets to seek shelter as a fierce wind whipped up waves in St Mark's Square.  The exceptionally intense "acqua alta," or high waters, peaked at 1.87 metres (six feet) as the flood alarm sounded across Italy's iconic city of canals, the tide monitoring centre said. • At least four killed in eastern Spain floods • Dozens dead, six missing in Typhoon Wipha's aftermath in Vietnam  "We're currently facing an exceptionally high tide. Everyone has been mobilised to cope with the emergency," Venice's mayor Luigi Brugnaro tweeted.  Only once since records began in 1923 has the water crept even higher, reaching 1.94m (6.3 feet) in 1966.  As emergency services took to the canals to survey the damage, Italian media reported that a 78-year old man had been electrocuted as the waters poured into his home.  The coast guard laid on extra boats to serve as water ambulances.  Tables and chairs set out for aperitifs bobbed along alleyways in the dark, as locals and tourists alike waded through the streets, the water slopping over the top of even the highest boots.  Water taxis attempting to drop people off at the glamorous and historic hotels along the Grand Canal discovered the gangways had been washed away and had to help passengers clamber through windows.  "It will be a long night," Brugnaro tweeted, saying that as the water level began to drop again "the fears of a few hours ago are now being replaced by an assessment of the damage done".  He said he would declare a state of disaster for the city.  The exceptional flood, which he blamed on climate change, was "a wound that will leave a permanent mark".  At the sumptuous Gritti Palace, which has played host to royals and celebrities over the decades, including Ernest Hemingway, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, the decadent bar was largely under water.  Rich tapestries were piled onto tables, while the waters lapped around velvet sofas and leather-bound books.  Since 2003, an enormous project to build 78 floating gates to protect Venice's lagoon during high tides has been under development, but it has been plagued by cost overruns, scandals and delays.  St Mark's Square is particularly affected by the high tides, as it is located in one of the lowest parts of the city.  The vestibule of the basilica was inundated with water, and authorities planned to watch the building overnight.  Pierpaolo Campostrini, a member of St Mark's council, said the scale of the flooding on Tuesday had only been seen five times in the long history of the basilica, where construction began in 828 and which was rebuilt after a fire in 1063.  Most worryingly, Campostrini said, three of those five episodes occurred in the last 20 years, most recently in 2018.  The cultural ministry said it would help fund improvements to the basilica's flood defences.


aljazeera--2019-11-25--High tides, heavy rain cause more flooding across northern Italy

Venice has been hit by further high water levels after weeks of flooding brought the lagoon city virtually to its knees.  The famous St Mark's Square was closed briefly on Sunday as the acqua alta (peak tide level) reached 130 centimetres (4.26 feet).  Tourists and Venetians were forced to wade through the high waters yet again after weeks of rain and wind caused further flooding across the city.  The city beloved around the world for its canals, historic architecture and art was hit by a high tide at 187cm 6.14 feet) on November 12. That was just short of the record of 194cm (6.4 feet) set in 1966 and caused the city's worst flooding in 50 years.  In normal conditions, tides of 80-90cm (31.5 - 35 inches) are generally seen as high but manageable.  With four tides above 140cm (4.6 feet) since November 11, this is the worst month for high tides in Venice since 1872 when official statistics were first produced.  The UNESCO world heritage city is home to 50,000 people and gets around 36 million visitors every year.  Further west on the other side of Italy, a portion of a motorway bridge linking Savona to Turin collapsed on Sunday.  Fire service personnel inspected the bridge on the A6 highway near Savona, after huge chunks of concrete plummeted to the ground due to a landslide.  According to a first inspection, local authorities said that there were no confirmed reports of fatalities or injuries in the area but firefighters were checking the area by helicopter.  Governor of the Liguria region, Giovanni Toti, asked residents to remain in their houses as much of Italy has been pummelled by torrential rains in recent days, with widespread flooding, especially in the northern regions.  The worst of the heavy rain is now clearing away to the southeast, moving across Greece and heading towards western Turkey. There will be further showers across Italy later in the week but they will not be anywhere near as heavy or prolonged.


bbc--2019-11-13--Venice floods: Climate change behind highest tide in 50 years, says mayor

Severe flooding in Venice that has left much of the Italian city under water is a direct result of climate change, the mayor says.  The highest water levels in the region in more than 50 years will leave "a permanent mark", Venice Mayor Luigi Brugnaro tweeted.  "Now the government must listen," he added. "These are the effects of climate change... the costs will be high."  The waters in Venice peaked at 1.87m (6ft), according to the tide monitoring centre. Only once since official records began in 1923 has the tide been higher, reaching 1.94m in 1966.  Images showed popular tourist sites left completely flooded and people wading through the streets as Venice was hit by a storm.  St Mark's Square - one of the lowest parts of the city - was one of the worst hit areas. St Mark's Basilica was flooded for the sixth time in 1,200 years, according to church records.  Pierpaolo Campostrini, a member of St Mark's council, said four of those floods had now occurred within the past 20 years. The city of Venice is made up of more than 100 islands inside a lagoon off the north-east coast of Italy.  Two people died on the island of Pellestrina, a thin strip of land that separates the lagoon from the Adriatic Sea. A man was electrocuted as he tried to start a pump in his home and a second person was found dead elsewhere.  Mr Brugnaro said the damage was "huge" an that he would declare a state of disaster, warning that a project to help prevent the Venetian lagoon suffering devastating floods "must be finished soon".  "The situation is dramatic. We ask the government to help us," he said on Twitter, adding that schools would remain closed until the water level subsides.  He also urged local businesses to share photos and video footage of the devastation, which he said would be useful when requesting financial help from the government.  People throughout the city waded through the flood waters.  A number of businesses were affected. Chairs and tables were seen floating outside cafes and restaurants.  In shops, workers tried to move their stock away from the water to prevent any further damage.  One shopkeeper, who was not named, told Italy's public broadcaster Rai: "The city is on its knees."  Three waterbuses sank in Venice but tourists continued their sightseeing as best they could.  One French couple told AFP news agency that they had "effectively swum" after some of the wooden platforms placed around the city in areas prone to flooding overturned.  On Wednesday morning, a number of boats were seen stranded.  A project to protect the city from flooding has been under way since 2003 but has been hit by soaring costs, scandals and delays.  The so-called Mose project - a series of large barriers or floodgates that would be raised from the seabed to shut off the lagoon in the event of rising sea levels and winter storms - was successfully tested for the first time in 2013.  The project has already cost billions of euros in investment. According to Italy's infrastructure ministry, the flood barriers will be handed over to the Venice city council at the end of 2021 following the "final phase" of testing.  Italy was hit by heavy rainfall on Tuesday with further bad weather forecast in the coming days. Venice suffers flooding on a yearly basis.


charlotteobserver--2019-12-07--Venice tide barriers pass another test, but skeptics remain

Floated along by barge , one of the 10-ton barriers designed to relieve Venice’s perennial flooding looks like a giant plaything: an oversized hinged yellow Lego.  Central to the plan to protect the city, some or all of the 78 barriers will one day be raised when the sea rises more than 110 centimeters (43 inches), to prevent damaging high tides from pushing into the lagoon city, a world heritage site built picturesquely — but somewhat precariously — upon more than 120 islands. Concerns that high tides are becoming more frequent because of climate change have increased the urgency.  While the concept is simple, its realization has been anything but.  The system of movable underwater barriers, dubbed Moses, has been beset by corruption, cost overruns and delays. Projected at 1.8 billion euros ($2 billion) and meant to be completed by 2011, the project has so far cost 5.5 billion euros and is running a decade behind schedule.  In the wake of last month’s flooding of Venice, the worst in 53 years, the consortium that oversees construction of Moses is eager to demonstrate that the project — after years of bad news — is on track and will be fully operational by the end of 2021.  Venetians say they cannot afford to be wrong. Skeptics and critics say they may be.  A recent test of the deepest expanse of barriers — at the Malamocco entrance to the lagoon — was declared a success by the New Venice Consortium.  It was the last of the four sections of barriers to be completely raised — but so far only in calm seas. The real test will come when all four are raised at once, and not only in serene waters, but under flood conditions. That isn’t scheduled to take place until the end of next year.  It took six years to test each of the four movable sea walls covering the three openings to the lagoon, partly because work was slowed by a 2014 corruption scandal that implicated the three main contractors and sent 35 people to jail.  Work is continuing largely with the original subcontractors now contracting directly with the consortium, which itself has been placed under government control as a result of the scandal.  The fact that the barriers have not yet been physically tested in rough seas is a concern to critics.  Paolo Vielmo, an offshore marine engineer who has long criticized the project, said that tests carried out in a laboratory in the Netherlands in the 1990s indicated that the barriers, under certain conditions, would oscillate out of control — possibly even breaking apart.  "Its behavior is not predictable,’’ Vielmo said. He said that the trials so far declared successful have been under only modest sea conditions that fail to represent anywhere near the threat of the phenomenon of extreme oscillation called subharmonic resonance.  Vielmo and two other offshore engineers have compiled a report for the Codacons consumer and environment protection advocacy group, which is asking officials to run additional calculations to see if the project is indeed viable.  And if it is not, Codacons says Moses should be stopped.  “We don’t want to delay by one minute the possibility to make Moses operational. But we say we cannot make it operational until we are sure it will work,’’ said Franco Conte, president of Codacons in Venice. “Naturally, the Venetian community is exasperated and they say, 'If we did 95%, let’s do 100% and see if that works.’ But that is unconscionable. If we don’t know if it works, we cannot experiment.”  The barrier system is made up of giant flood gates, each 20 meters (66 feet) long. The gates are attached by hinges to giant cement blocks placed on the seabed along the three openings from the sea into the lagoon, Malamocco, Chioggia and the Lido. The gates can be lifted to create a temporary barrier in high tides. Once the water has receded, they can be lowered again — allowing shipping traffic to continue and for the tidal system to flush out the lagoon.  The idea behind the project was to create a mobile system that would not impede views of the unique and protected landscape. But Moses has suffered criticism from the start that there were simpler, cheaper systems that could have been deployed.  Venetians have been waiting since the record 1.94-meter (6.36-foot) flood of 1966 for a system to protect them from regular inundations. The flooding in November, the second-worst recorded, proved the urgency.  In the 150 years that they have been recording the tide levels in Venice, two high tides above 1.5 meters have never been recorded in a year. In November, there were three in one week.  Climate scientists note that exceptional tides — those over 1.4 meters — have become much more frequent in the past two decades, with more than half of all recorded occurring since 2000.  "One has to realize the kind of existential question that that serious flooding has given rise to,” said Jane Da Mosto, an environmental scientist and executive director of the non-profit group We Are Here Venice, which is working to defend the city against myriad issues, including depopulation, cruise traffic through St. Mark’s basin and overtourism. “People are asking: will Venice be defendable against these kinds of episodes?’’  It’s not just the still-uncalculated damage to landmarks like St. Mark’s Basilica, where corrosive salt water creeps through porous brick and tile. It’s also the boxes of ruined belongings and piles of soaked mattresses discarded in alleyways and loaded onto motorboats and trash barges for disposal. The relentlessness of the Venetian fall and winter tides make one-third of ground floors uninhabitable in the historic canal city.  “I am very old, I cannot say that I want to die, but I certainly do not want to be witness to the fact that it does not work,” 84-year-old resident Paola Scarpa said of the Moses barriers, as she walked to check on a family property in the Canareggio neighborhood on a recent December morning. “It would be a pain too great.”


birminghammail--2019-01-30--Hour by hour weather forecast for Birmingham on Thursday as city faces snow and -6C-like chill

Birmingham will feel as cold as -6C at times tomorrow, according to the Met Office, with forecasters predicting snow across the city and region.  The Midlands has been issued with a yellow weather warning for ice and fog in the morning of Thursday.  And that alert will give way to a yellow warning for snow, issued by the Met Office from Thursday evening into Friday morning.  The temperatures will plunge across the city, with the mercury plummeting to below freezing and feeling MUCH colder.  Lows of -3C are expected tomorrow morning - and, worryingly, it could feel as low as -6C at times, due to a bitter wind chill and Arctic blast.  Any showers around in the evening will ease off later in the night, leaving clear skies across the region.  It will be a cold night with temperatures dropping sharply, giving ice and freezing fog patches by the morning.  Cloudier and windier in the afternoon, with outbreaks of sleet and possibly some disruptive snow spreading in from the south by evening.  The Met Office has warned Britain is bracing for the coldest night of the winter so far, with "significant snowfall" likely to cause further travel delays and school closures.  Temperatures of minus 10C (14F) are possible in parts of the country in the early hours of Thursday, with this winter's record of minus 10.8C (12.6F) expected to be broken.  Freezing rain can quickly glaze an area with ice and leave roads and pavements in a dangerous condition, but fortunately it is relatively rare in the British Isles. According to the Met Office, freezing rain occurs when rain falls through sub-zero temperature air to become supercooled water that freezes "almost instantly" when it hits a cold surface. Supercooled water droplets can exist in a liquid state below zero degrees, and occur in clouds in winter time. Freezing rain typically starts life as snow, ice, sleet or hail which falls through a layer of air above zero degrees and melts into liquid water. If these water droplets then pass through a zone of sub-zero air just above the ground, they become supercooled. When supercooled droplets eventually strike cold ground they freeze on impact, creating a glaze of ice. Why is it dangerous? An abundance of freezing rain is called an ice storm and can bring large-scale disruption, the Met Office says. Ice glaze can collect on trees or power lines which then break from the weight of the build-up. Motorists and pedestrians are also risk as a glaze can make roads and pavements very slippery. How common is it in the UK? The Met Office explains that in some weather systems, for example in parts of the US, freezing rain is common. But it adds: "The conditions needed for freezing rain to occur are quite specific and we don't see them very often, making this phenomenon quite rare in the UK. "We are more likely to see rain falling on to already frozen surfaces, or wet surfaces that freeze as temperatures drop below 0C overnight."  Manchester and Liverpool airports were at a standstill on Wednesday morning and several schools in the cities closed their doors due to the harsh conditions.  The disruption caused by the snow is set to deepen with a weather system arriving from the South West and pushing north on Thursday.  It is forecast to bring a widespread harsh frost along with freezing fog and significant snowfall, with several centimetres possible across parts of England, said Met Office meteorologist Alex Burkill.  Further warnings have been issued for most of England and Wales on Thursday and Friday, taking effect from 1pm on Thursday until 9pm on Friday.  Snow is likely to settle, meaning Friday could be a snow day for many, but some uncertainty remains, Mr Burkill said.  Areas of higher ground could get up to 10cm of snow while several centimetres are possible across lower-lying areas.  Mr Burkill said: "It's what happens on Thursday that has the potential to be more disruptive.  "It does have the potential to bring some very significant snow. We have already got a warning out in force for it.  "It's currently just a yellow warning, but it's not out of the question that will be ramped up nearer the time.  "It's looking like it will be a spell of persistent snow."  The year's record low of minus 10.8C (12.6F) recorded in Braemar, Aberdeenshire, on January 18 is also likely to be beaten, most probably in the north of Scotland, but parts of England could also see negative double figures, Mr Burkill said.  Benton in Oxfordshire and Santon Downham, Suffolk, are among parts of England which could be coldest, and temperatures across southern areas are forecast to dip to around minus 8C (17.6F).  "It's worth bearing in mind there will be some disruption, particularly to travel. If you're heading out on the roads, be aware your journey will take a lot longer than normal," Mr Burkill added.  "There's an ice risk which is going to cause some problems so even if there is no snow it could be icy on the roads and pavement which people need to be aware of."  Councils have prepared for heavy snowfall, with more than 1.4 million tonnes of salt stockpiled, the Local Government Association said.  A cold night with some freezing fog and ice.  Any showers around in the evening will ease off later in the night, leaving clear skies across the region. It will be a cold night with temperatures dropping sharply, giving ice and freezing fog patches by the morning. Minimum temperature -6 °C.  Dry with freezing fog lifting slowly Thursday morning. Cloudier and windier in the afternoon, with outbreaks of sleet and possibly some disruptive snow spreading in from the south by evening. Maximum temperature 3 °C.  Cold on Friday with outbreaks of sleet and snow clearing to leave a dry afternoon. Cold, dry and bright on Saturday. Overnight frosts. Rain, sleet or snow later on Sunday.


birminghammail--2019-02-16--Weather forecast for Birmingham over February half term day by day

February half-term has arrived for countless Brummies, with schools breaking up across the city and parents having to fill their diaries.  Mums and dads will be shepherding their children around all week, trying to keep them busy and entertained and stop them climbing the walls.  But, with Birmingham's weather not being ENTIRELY reliable, we thought we'd round up the weather forecast for you day by day.  This daily forecast comes following reports the UK could be braced for a -2C snow bomb - but don't worry, the Met Office say it won't impact Birmingham.  This weekend, parts of the country are set to experience temperature highs of 15C, as the mercury climbs to an unseasonably warm level.  But forecasters reckon a blanket of white stuff will follow the Spanish plume, with some meteorologists expecting snow THIS WEEK in Britain.  In Birmingham, you don't have to worry about any of that - but you won't see much sunshine, sadly.  Recently, Britain has clocked up the warmest Valentine's Day in more than 20 years.  February 14 saw a maximum of 16.1C (61F) recorded in the Welsh town of Bala, Gwynedd.  But what does the weather have in store for Birmingham this week? Let's take a look.  A northerly flow of air will make a brief return to the UK as low pressure cells passing to the north will bring plenty of cloud and rain to northern Britain.  Showers could be heavy at times in the north, but southern and eastern regions should escape the worst of any rain.  Monday will be cloudy, with temperature highs of 11C and a low of 3C.  Bright spells and some showers are expected.  Temperatures will reach 7C at 9am, before nudging north to 9C between 12noon and 6pm.  The cloud cover will remain into the evening, where you can expect lows of 3C.  Dry and bright with lighter winds on Tuesday.  It will remain cloudy, with temperatures reaching 4C at 9am before reaching 9C later in the day.  Temperatures will continue to be subdued a little on Tuesday with winds veering northwesterly and ‘feels-like’ values of just 5-7C, according to The Weather Channel.  More settled and mild conditions should take charge for the remainder of the week.  Pressure should start to build again in the south resulting in milder weather returning but it could still be unsettled in parts of the north.  Breezy with a spell of rain on Wednesday, drier later.  Despite some reports of a risk of snow, there is no indication of a return to the wintry weather that gripped the UK last month.  Temperatures will not, however, immediately shoot up and could actually fall back slightly in the early part of next week.  Many places will stay dry with sunny spells on Thursday and Friday.  The far west and northwest is likely to be cloudier and breezier, with some rain and drizzle.  Temperatures will widely be above the seasonal average, but sometimes they will be tempered in the north and west by the wind.


birminghammail--2019-03-15--This is the weather forecast for Birminghams St Patricks Day Parade 2019

This is the weather forecast for Birmingham's St Patrick's Day Parade 2019

Any open-air event in Britain is subject to changes in the weather.  And the St Patrick's Parade in Birmingham is no different. It takes place along Digbeth High Street every year.  More than 90,000 spectators are expected to turn out and line the streets to watch the world's third largest St Patrick's parade go past.  But will it be rain or shine?  Garry Jones, of Off Our Trolley Arts which lead an outreach initiative to get students and community groups to design and create parade costumes and float entries, recalls: "Throughout the years we have been subjected to all weathers, getting sunburn one year and coming close to frostbite the next."  So what's the weather forecast for the 2019 event?  According to the latest forecasts, this is what's happening in Birmingham on Sunday, March 17.  The forecasts do indicate some light showers are possible around midday, when the parade sets off.  But there will also be sunny spells and thankfully no heavy rain and no sign of the recent gusts and gales of Storm Gareth.  11am - Mostly cloudy, a few showers, some sunny spells, 6C  12pm (midday) - Mostly cloudy, a few showers, some sunny spells,7C  1pm - Mostly cloudy, a few showers, some sunny spells, 7C  2pm - Mostly cloudy, a few showers, some sunny spells, 7C  3pm - Mostly cloudy, a few showers, some sunny spells, 7C  4pm - Mostly cloudy, a few showers, some sunny spells, 7C  5pm - Mostly cloudy, a few showers, some sunny spells, 6C  Peter Connolly, chair of St Patrick’s Festival Birmingham, said: "We are so thrilled to present the St Patrick’s Festival 2019 to Birmingham and to visitors from across the globe on Sunday.  "The festival family has worked especially hard this year to ensure there’s something for everyone as part of the programme.  "Our St Pat Rocks music offering has gone from strength to strength since 2015, and we look forward to raising a glass to one of the greats of Irish folk music, Finbar Furey, on the day.  "The support from our community, from local and Irish businesses, and from the city we live and work in all help to keep this incredible civic event growing in size and ambition each year."  Setting off from Camp Hill Island at midday and travelling along Digbeth High Street to St Martin's Church and close to the iconic Selfridges building - lit green for the occasion - before looping back again, the parade will end at 2pm.  Led by festival organising committee member Len Cale dressed as St Patrick, the parade convoy will comprise of marching bands, Irish dancing schools, classic cars, dhol drummers, samba bands, Irish county associations, sports teams, agricultural vehicles, traditional Irish musicians and community groups drawn from across Birmingham and the West Midlands.  More than 50 musicians, including Dublin multi-instrumentalist and singer Finbar Furey, will take to the stage at the St Pat Rocks venue from 1.35pm, with a live music offering of Birmingham Irish acts including contemporary folk bands Lampa and The Deluge and Salt Creek, singer-songwriter James Reidy, and traditional groups Cairde and Reel Note who will bring the venue to a close at midnight.  The Emerald Village children's area which includes the Bob Wilson funfair, entertainment from Mad Dom!, an F1 racing car simulator, a small petting zoo, Irish music workshops (tin whistle and bodhrán) and a big screen stream of the parade will be open from noon to 10pm.


birminghammail--2019-05-03--Bank holiday weather forecast for Birmingham from Met Office as UK set for snow and frosts

The early May bank holiday will see snow and frost, with temperatures plunging close to the coldest on record.  The bone-chilling forecast from the Met Office comes just a year on from the hottest ever recorded.  The mercury is expected to drop to as low as minus 5C (23F) in some parts of the UK.  In Birmingham, thankfully, we'll see lows of just freezing, with overnight frosts.  Snow is expected in some areas of high ground across Britain, though.  The lowest temperature ever recorded on the early May bank holiday was minus 6.4C (20.5F) in Grantown-on-Spey in Scotland in 1981, and the same temperature was recorded on the same weekend in Kinbrace in Scotland in 1988.  Met Office forecaster Steven Keates said: "I don't think we'll get lower than that, but I wouldn't completely rule it out, so we'll keep an eye on that one."  In 2018, the mercury hit 28.7C (83.6F) in Northolt, west London, making it the hottest early May bank holiday Monday and weekend since records began.  Mr Keates said a small amount of snow is expected, adding: "In the grand scheme of things, it's probably nothing to get too excited about in terms of the amounts.  "But nonetheless, it's the first week of May, and in contrast to the recent pretty warm weather we've had, particularly over Easter, it will be a bit of a shock to the system."  Mr Keates said snow is expected mainly in the mountains of Scotland and maybe higher ground in northern England.  He said lower levels in northern Scotland may also see snow.  Mr Keates said the snow is expected from Thursday night and could last through to Sunday in the far north of Scotland.  He said any snow will struggle to settle, with a covering being a possibility in the Grampians and north Highlands, and potentially a slight covering in parts of the Pennines and Snowdonia.  "Widespread disruptive snow is not really expected, but there could be some ice around as well overnight, particularly where we've seen showers.  "It will feel a bit like winter to be honest, for some of us, over the next couple of days," he said.  The average maximum temperature for this time of year in northern Scotland is around 11C (51.8F), in southern England it is around 16C (60.8F), and on the Yorkshire coast it is around 12C (53.6F) or 13C (55.4F).  But on Saturday there will be highs of around 5C (41F) or 6C (42.8F) in Shetland, while the eastern coast of England will see highs of between 7C (44.6F) and 9C (48.2F).  "It probably won't be the best beach weather," Mr Keates said, adding that it will feel not much higher than freezing for people in the wind and the rain.  The forecaster said people can expect widespread sharp frosts at night, with the possibility of minus 5C (23F) in Northern Ireland, Wales and south west England into Sunday morning.  Expect a fairly cloudy day on Friday, with some showery rain at times, perhaps brightening up a touch later on, especially in the north.  There may be some patchy rain around overnight, but some clear spells too, and quite a cold night for the time of year.  Minimum temperatures will drop to freezing, before the mercury again reaches highs of double digits tomorrow (Saturday).  The first day of the weekend will see highs of 11C after a chilly start, then a good deal of sunshine.  There are likely to be a few showers around too, some heavy with hail.  Brummies can expect it to remain chilly, especially in the northerly breeze.  The rest of the Bank Holiday weekend sees a good deal of dry weather with cloud bubbling up during the day, but cold, clear nights.  Looking ahead to next week, the Met Office forecasts: "Cloudy skies will tend to increase from the southwest through Tuesday, with some outbreaks of rain.  "The rain may turn heavy in the southwest, with the risk of gales mainly in the south and southwest.  "However, some northern areas will stay in a brighter but showery regime, with a risk of thunder in the far north.  "It will be widely cold by day, with overnight frosts.  "Thereafter, changeable conditions will continue to dominate, with outbreaks of rain and perhaps windier spells at times.  "However, there could be a shift towards more settled conditions from the middle of the month.  "Although it may start rather cold, a return to more normal temperatures for the time of year is probable."


birminghammail--2019-06-29--Hour by hour weather forecast as Birmingham set for hottest day of the year

The summer has finally arrived and today is set to be the hottest day of the year.  After weeks of misery and rain, Birmingham will be welcoming scorching highs of 32C this Saturday (June 29).  The Met office is forecasting a full day of sunshine with glorious temperatures.  The day will be dry and sunny and even hotter than it was on Friday in most places in the city.  Temperatures will soar to over 30C from mid-afternoon and into the evening.  A dry night will follow with some clear spells, gradually turning a little chillier but still minimum temperatures of 14C.  Here is the hour by hour forecast for the next 24 hours:  For the rest of the weekend, there will generally be more cloud, though there will still be some spells of strong sunshine.  Sunday will be cooler, but still feeling pleasant in any sunshine with highs of 22C.  Next week is looking to cool down after a blazing hot Saturday, with a breezy, sunny Monday with the possibility of showers.  Tuesday and Wednesday look largely fine with plenty of sunny spells. Temperatures are forecast around 18C in the upcoming week.


birminghammail--2019-06-01--Birmingham weather forecast - this is when the summer sunshine is finally coming

As parts of the UK are set to be basking in 30C temperatures hotter than Ibiza , what's going on in Birmingham?  Saturday June 1 has seen cloudy skies over Birmingham but it's been warm with the thermometer hitting 23C. Pollen counts were high.  Sunday June 2 is bringing more cloud - but it'll still be warm at 21C. The really bad news is that there will be spells of heavy rain between 2pm and 5pm, and then light showers until around 7pm.  However, the sun will appear towards the end of the day at 8pm, giving us a welcome period of sunshine until sunset at 9.21pm. And the pollen count won't be as high as Saturday.  Great news if you are planning to head out to a beer garden for a Sunday drink in the evening.  Joining the existing options is rotisserie chicken joint The Rebel, in Pitsford Street, Jewellery Quarter.  The venue is celebrating its first birthday with the launch of a new beer garden and brunch menu.  Until Sunday, June 2, chicken lovers can enjoy 30 per cent off of all drinks and food while they relax, dance and party at the popular eatery.  It specialises in rotisserie chicken, marinated and smoked over cherry wood and coals, along with towering burgers, a range of chicken wings, sides and a special selection of hand-picked craft beer and gins.  Bosses said the new brunch menu includes a breakfast board, merguez sausage and bacon sandwiches, eggs benedict, royale and florentine, plus The Rebel’s Bloody Mary.  So what does the weather have in store for the rest of the week?  Here's what's forecast so far for Birmingham, according to the Met Office:  Sunny very early on, then cloudy, with sunshine returning around 4pm. Highs of 17C. High pollen count. Sunrise 4.50am, sunset 9.22pm.  Cloudy with light showers starting mid-morning and continuing through the day. Highs of 15C. Medium pollen count. Sunrise 4.49am, sunset 9.23pm.  Sunny intervals changing to heavy showers by lunchtime. Highs of 15C. Medium pollen count. Sunrise 4.48am, sunset 9.24pm.  A sunny start changing to showers  - some of them heavy - by late morning. Highs of 15C. Sunrise 4.47am, sunset 9.25pm.  Cloudy changing to light showers in the afternoon. Highs of 16C. Sunrise 4.47am, sunset 9.26pm.  Much of the southeast and East Anglia will have another dry and very warm day with periods of sunshine. Further west and north across the UK there will be some showery outbreaks of rain, slowly spreading eastwards.  However, some western parts of the UK will become brighter and somewhat drier again later on.  Through the evening, a few showers are likely to reach East Anglia and the south-east.  Otherwise, much of England and Wales will become drier overnight with clear periods. It will be a fresher night than recently. A few showers may persist in the west. Scotland and Northern Ireland will stay generally showery and windy overnight.  Monday will be a fresher day for all with a mixture of sunny spells and scattered showers; with the most frequent showers for Scotland and Northern Ireland.  Tuesday will see further showers for many, some heavy and prolonged.


birminghammail--2019-06-25--Birmingham hour by hour weather forecast for Tuesday as thunderstorms return to spark more chaos

Thunderstorms will unload "hefty downpours" and flashes of lightning over parts of England today - and Birmingham may not escape.  On Tuesday morning, Hastings saw 13mm (0.5in) of rain fall in one hour, while 10mm (0.4in) was recorded at Sandhurst, the Met Office said.  A yellow thunderstorm warning covering central and eastern England and a yellow rain warning covering North Wales and north-west England are in place until midday.  In Birmingham, heavy, thundery rain at first is expected from the Met Office, with forecasters issuing its daily forecast for Tuesday.  This is set to be slowly easing but remaining cloudy and murky with further outbreaks of light rain in places.  A few bright spells may develop in the southwest and far north of the region later.  "Feeling warm and humid," the Met Office say.  Tonight, any residual rain and drizzle will ease, to leave a dry night although most will stay cloudy and murky.  Forecasters warned of "challenging" conditions for the morning commute, with a risk of localised flooding and surface water on roads posing a hazard to motorists.  Met Office meteorologist Simon Partridge said: "The storms have arrived along the south coast of England from the Isle of Wight to the Dove Strait with increasing amounts of thundery activity.  "Those storms are expected to clear by the time we get to 7am, leaving some light rain for an hour or so before it gets drier through the morning.  "The storms will continue north-eastwards over parts of East Anglia and the Humber before edging out over the North Sea.  "There could be some localised flooding, but certainly some surface water flooding which can cause problems to drive through as well as spray.  "So the early morning commute could be challenging, especially in areas north of London as that's where the heaviest rain will be at that point."  As well as problems on the roads, passengers using some southern routes have been advised to check for potential disruption to journeys.  National Rail Enquiries said passengers on Gatwick Express, Great Northern, Southern and Thameslink services could be affected.  The storms are being fed by an area of warm air that brought a muggy night for many - with temperatures only falling to 20C (68F) in some parts of the South East.  The mercury is expected to climb quickly after the lively weather moves through, with up to 27C (80F) expected in parts of the south on Tuesday afternoon.  Heavy, thundery rain at first slowly easing but remaining cloudy and murky with further outbreaks of light rain in places. A few bright spells may develop in the southwest and far north of the region later. Feeling warm and humid. Maximum temperature 21 °C.  Any residual rain and drizzle will ease, to leave a dry night although most will stay cloudy and murky. Another fairly warm and humid night. Minimum temperature 14 °C.  Cloudy and murky at first, but slowly brightening up with warm spells of sunshine developing. A few places may remain rather cloudy throughout, but it will be dry. Maximum temperature 21 °C.  Dry, increasingly sunny and very warm, perhaps hot across the south on Thursday and Friday. Slowly turning fresher through Saturday with the odd shower possible in the north.


birminghammail--2019-08-15--Hour by hour weather forecast for Birmingham on Friday as city faces months worth of rain

Hour by hour weather forecast for Birmingham on Friday as city faces month's worth of rain

Almost a month's worth of rain is expected to lash parts of the UK on Friday as Birmingham faces a deluge.  Forecasters have issued a yellow warning for between 8am and 10pm for swathes of the UK.  And while Birmingham isn't affected by the alert from the agency, the forecast remains bleak, with transport likely to be affected and flooding possible.  The warning covers Wales, north west England and south west England, with high ground expected to see the worst weather.  Met Office forecaster Marco Petagna said up to 80mm of rain is possible in some areas.  The average August rainfall in Wales is 107mm and the average for August in the south west is 90mm - meaning that almost a month's worth of rain could fall on Friday alone.  "August actually can be a fairly wet month," he said.  Strong winds are also expected, with 30mph-40mph gusts likely around exposed coasts and hills.  Heavy rain may coincide with peak travel times during the afternoon and early evening, leading to difficult driving conditions on major routes, the warning says.  Mr Petagna said places outside the warning area will not escape the rain on Friday.  "Much of England and Wales will see a fairly wet day," he said, adding that the whole of the UK will get rain at some point.  The forecaster said the weekend will bring sunshine and blustery showers, adding that things are looking more positive next week.  "Especially come mid-week, pressure's building a bit," he said.


birminghammail--2019-12-08--Day by day weather forecast for Birmingham this week as Storm Atiyah batters UK with 70mph gales

Strong winds from Storm Atiyah are expected to worsen this week - as the UK is pummelled by ripping winds of 70mph.  The first named storm of the season brought downpours and gales to parts of the UK this weekend.  And, unfortunately, there's no end in sight just yet - according to forecasters, who predicts gales could exceed 75mph in the hours between Sunday night and Monday morning.  Their warnings come as the storm sweeps in from Ireland where it disrupted transport and power networks.  A yellow weather alert from the Met Office warned of very strong winds striking west Wales and south-west England from 6pm on Sunday until 9am on Monday.  In Birmingham, thankfully, the city will escape the brunt of the bad weather - but that doesn't mean things look rosy in the Midlands.  The Met Office forecast on Monday reads: "Most places will be dry and bright with plenty of sunshine and easing winds throughout. Remaining dry overnight with clear spells and an early frost developing across the region. Maximum temperature 8 °C."  And the outlook for Tuesday to Thursday adds: "Heavy rain and strong winds Tuesday with possible gales. Rain clearing overnight to leave a cold and windy day on Wednesday with some heavy showers. Showery Thursday with lighter winds."  Wind speeds of 78mph were recorded at Sherkin Island and Roches Point on the south coast of Ireland on Sunday, while the Isles of Scilly saw gusts of 71mph.  On the UK mainland the wind hit 70mph at Culdrose in Cornwall in the hour leading up to 9pm.  Met Office meteorologist Alex Burkill said on Sunday night: "The winds across particularly the south west will strengthen further so we will be seeing some gusts in excess of 75mph overnight.  "Widely across the UK I'm seeing gusts, pretty much from top to tail, of 30 to 40mph.  "The strong winds are pretty widespread. It's very windy in the west and south west so that's where we're going to see the greatest impact unfortunately."  Sea fronts in coastal communities could be affected by spray and large waves, the Met Office said.  It warned that some delays to road, rail, air and ferry transport were likely as well as the short term loss of power being possible.  In the South West, Coastsafe, a partnership campaign aiming to improve coastline safety, urged people to be wary of tidal surges and debris being thrown over sea walls during the storm.  The M48 Severn Bridge introduced lane closures on Sunday due to increasing wind speeds.  South Wales Police advised drivers to slow down and be prepared for stronger winds when passing high-sided vehicles.  Network Rail imposed speed restrictions on CrossCountry and Great Western Railway services between Taunton in Somerset and Penzance in Cornwall on Sunday night.  In Ireland, forecasters at Met Eireann earlier issued a status red weather warning of gusts in excess of 130km/h (80mph) that was due to expire at 7pm.  A spokeswoman for ESB networks said engineers had to restore power to thousands of homes in Kerry cut off by the storm on Sunday.  At Cork Airport, a number of Aer Lingus regional flights were cancelled, while trains connecting the city to Mallow, Cobh and Midleton were operating at reduced speeds as a precaution.  Mr Burkill said the worst of the winds from Atiyah, the first named storm of the season, are expected to abate by Monday afternoon, with conditions remaining blustery.  Further unsettled, wet and windy weather is forecast for mid-week, with warnings likely to be issued on Tuesday covering Scotland, the North East and North West, he added.


eveningstandard--2019-01-02--UK weather forecast Health warning issued as temperatures plunge across UK amid cold snap

UK weather forecast: Health warning issued as temperatures plunge across UK amid cold snap

Londoners were told to “dig out the gloves” as they faced a bitterly cold return to work after the festive break.  After a mild spell over the holiday period, forecasters warned that temperatures in the capital this week will peak at a chilly 7C during the day and plunge as low as 2C overnight — with the chance of low fog patches increasing by Friday.  The UK is experiencing what is known as “sudden stratospheric warming” — a jump in temperatures that leads to colder winter conditions.  The Met Office with Public Health England (PHE) has issued a level-2 "alert and readiness" cold weather alert across northern and central parts of England into the weekend.  The Met Office tweeted: “Dig out the gloves if you’re up early, it’s getting much colder overnight.”  It is the same phenomenon that led to the heavy snowfalls of early 2018. The Met Office today said it could have an impact on London weather towards the middle of the month.  Forecaster Helen Roberts said: “It is feeling much colder this week than before, and towards the middle of the month it will make conditions much more changeable.  “While it is technically possible that Beast from the East-style heavy snowfall will return, we just don’t know yet whether it will happen.”  A high pressure anchored over the UK has created still conditions and prevented rain coming across the country, leading to the cold weather.  Overnight in the UK temperatures dropped as low as -6C.  Grahame Madge from the Met Office said foggy conditions will “remain a challenge” over the next few days.  He said the colder conditions being felt are on par with previous years with maximum daytime temperatures set to peak around 6 degrees over the next few days.


eveningstandard--2019-01-04--UK weather forecast Brits set for chilly conditions to continue in first weekend of 2019

UK weather forecast: Brits set for chilly conditions to continue in first weekend of 2019

Brits are set for the recent chilly weather to continue in the first weekend of 2019.  The Met Office said the high pressure that caused temperatures to plummet during the week will continue overnight into Saturday morning.  But conditions won’t be quite as bitterly cold as they were during the week. Forecasters, meanwhile, are expecting dry and cloudy weather across the UK.  Meteorologist John West told the Standard: “We have been experiencing the effects of high pressure over the past couple of days and that will be very much in place as we go into the weekend.  “It has been quite dry, cloudy and rather cold – and that will be the case across the UK through Saturday and Sunday.  “But in terms of temperatures, things will be a little less cold into the weekend.  “Some north-west parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland will see rain and drizzle, but there will be plenty of dry weather for much of England and Wales."  For London and the south-east, Mr West added there is a chance of overnight frost in some areas.  He said: “It will be very cloudy and quite a cold start on Saturday for London and the south-east. There may even be a few bits of frost in places like west London.  “Temperatures are not going to be amazing at all, at about 5C. It’s going to be dry – but a chilly one.  “On Sunday, the clouds will remain, though it looks like the temperatures will creep up to about 9C or 10C.”  This week’s cold snap saw emergency homeless shelters open across the capital as temperatures plummeted below zero.  Severe weather shelters will be available through the weekend.  Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said more than 700 spaces at shelters funded by City Hall and London councils will be available, in addition to more than 600 spaces in shelters run by faith and community groups.


eveningstandard--2019-01-12--UK weather forecast Snow set to hit parts of the country with temperatures predicted to plunge

UK weather forecast: Snow set to hit parts of the country with temperatures predicted to plunge

Snow is set to hit parts of the UK this week with temperatures predicted to plunge, becoming “wintery.”  The Met Office has warned that it is likely that there will be snow in northern Scotland later on in the week.  Marco Petagna meteorologist at the Met Office, told the Standard: “It will be breezy, colder with snow on the hills towards the north.”  Many people across the country should expect a cloudy and mild Saturday and Sunday, with highs of 8C or 9C.  In London and the south east, Saturday will be dry and breezy while Sunday will be windy with temperatures reaching 11C.  Moving further into the week, winds are expected to pick up with “spells of rain pushing in from the south east.  The Met Office says by the end of the month, temperatures are expected to drop and conditions will become more “wintery.”  Forecasters warned earlier this week that the same weather patterns which sparked the Beast from the East - and brought freezing temperatures and heavy snow last winter - could return this year.  The Met Office said sudden stratospheric warming had appeared around Christmas, when there was a sharp increase in the temperature over a couple of days.  When this happens in the Arctic it can lead to a rush of cold air blowing eastwards across Europe a few weeks later, bringing much cooler temperatures to the continent.  The Met Office said this is what caused the Beast from the East early last year - an icy blast of freezing Siberian winds which brought freezing temperatures and heavy snow to much of the UK.


eveningstandard--2019-01-13--UK weather forecast Met Office rules out snow this week with UK set for largely dry conditions

UK weather forecast: Met Office rules out snow this week with UK set for largely dry conditions

The Met Office has ruled out snow in the UK this coming week.  It comes despite the nation bracing itself for a bitter cold snap, with temperatures set to plunge from mid-week onwards.  A whiteout had earlier been considered a possibility, but meteorologist John West told the Standard on Sunday that conditions will be too dry for that to happen.  He said: “We are not looking at snow in the next five days. It will turn cold from midweek onwards, with temperatures taking a dip by Wednesday and highs of just 5C or 6C.  “However, Thursday is looking dry, so there are no signs of snow.  "It can’t be ruled out in the obvious places, like the top of Scotland, but UK-wide it’s unlikely.”  On Sunday night, moving into Monday morning, temperatures are set to remain relatively mild - though strong winds will continue.  Mr West added: “What we are going to see overnight is showers coming down from the north. It will be quite windy, and that will turn into snow over the hills and mountains of Scotland.  “Elsewhere, though, it will be dry across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. It will generally be cloudy, with the north-east of Scotland and north-east of England most prone to overnight frost.  “The winds will ease out by the morning, but there is a possibility of rain in eastern England as well as London.”  Conditions will generally be cloudy in the capital on Monday, with expected highs of 8C in the afternoon.


eveningstandard--2019-01-13--UK weather forecast Met Office rules out snow with UK set for largely dry conditions all week

UK weather forecast: Met Office rules out snow with UK set for largely dry conditions all week


eveningstandard--2019-01-14--UK weather forecast Arctic blast set to hit UK this week bringing snow and ice

UK weather forecast: Arctic blast set to hit UK this week bringing snow and ice

The UK’s mild January weather looks set to come to an end this week with a blast of Arctic air expected to see temperatures plunge below freezing.  Overnight frosts and the possibility of rain showers turning snow are forecast from Wednesday.  After a mild Monday and Tuesday, temperatures are expected to reach freezing overnight for much of the country and could plunge as low as -5C in rural areas of Scotland.  Meteorologist Bonnie Diamond, from the Met Office, said the cold polar air from the northwest will switch to a colder Arctic airflow from the north.  "Through Wednesday a polar maritime air mass is going to push in from the west but by the time we get to Thursday it will be an Arctic air mass," she said.  Northeast Scotland saw some snowfall on Monday, and expected rain showers could turn to snow by Friday in western parts of the UK, she added.  Average daytime temperatures in the south of England will struggle to rise above 6C.  While this is the average for January, Ms Diamond said the contrast after such a mild January will have people reaching for their warmest coats and thermals.  "Other than the odd cold snap for some parts for the first half of January it has been relatively mild but this week is a transition to colder weather for the entire country and will be noticeable for all of us and we're going to really feel the switch to colder temperatures," she said.  The Met Office has said there are signs cold air from the east could make its way to the UK by the end of the month and into February, but cautioned that this does not automatically mean the return of the so-called Beast from the East which brought heavy snowfall.  Ms Diamond said: "Just because the wind is coming from the east does not necessarily mean we are going to see a repeat of last year."  Parts of Europe have seen extreme weather for the beginning of the year, with Austria's forecaster experiencing the most January snowfall since 1923.


eveningstandard--2019-01-16--UK weather forecast Snow to hit parts of Britain today as Arctic blast sweeps in bringing ice and w

UK weather forecast: Snow to hit parts of Britain today as Arctic blast sweeps in bringing ice and widespread frost

Brits are braced for a bitter cold snap as Arctic air sweeps in bringing snow, ice and a widespread frost from today.  The Met Office has issued two weather warnings for snow and ice covering great swathes of the UK from Wednesday to Thursday.  A warning for snow and ice across much of Scotland comes into effect from midday today.  Wintry showers already falling on high ground are expected to become more widespread on Wednesday with several centimetres of snow expected in the Highlands.  A separate warning for ice that covers almost the entire of Britain will come into force this evening, with forecasters warning of possibly injuries on slippery surfaces.  Forecasters warned there will also be wintry showers in parts, most likely in parts of Scotland and northern, eastern and central England.  Met Office meteorologist Richard Miles told the Standard these showers could fall on lower ground but added that these will not be heavy and would not reach as far as London and the south east.  "There will be rain this afternoon and this evening in London," he added.  On Thursday, Brits should expect chilly conditions with a severe frost overnight, Mr Miles said.  He said: "On Thursday temperatures could drop as low as -1C even in the daytime, or it will feel like that with wind chill.  "And Thursday night is going to the the coldest. Overnight in the south east it could drop down to -5C."  He added that anywhere in the UK could see the mercury drop below freezing.  The icy blast comes after cold Arctic air moved southwards to the UK following a sudden stratospheric warming over the north pole.  But while a similar weather pattern sparked last year's so-called "Beast from the East", Mr Miles said the conditions will not be the same as the air has come straight down from the north this year.  Rain and showers in the jet stream are meeting the cold air from the north and mixing to become showers of snow.  This will differ from last year's persistent heavy snow, Mr Miles explained.  Looking ahead to the weekend, the forecaster said the cold weather is here to stay.  The mercury could plunge as low as -7C in central England on Saturday night and it is likely to remain chilly into Monday.


eveningstandard--2019-01-16--UK weather forecast Weather warnings rolled out across the UK as Artic blast sweeps in

UK weather forecast: Weather warnings rolled out across the UK as Artic blast sweeps in

Weather warnings have been rolled out across almost the entire of the UK as Brits brace themselves for a bitter cold snap.  Arctic air is set to sweep across the country, bringing snow, ice and a widespread frost from Wednesday.  Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for ice across nearly all of Britain between 10pm on Wednesday and 11am on Thursday.  A further 24-hour weather warning for snow is in place across most of Scotland from midday on Wednesday.  Wintry showers already falling on high ground are expected to become more widespread on Wednesday with several centimetres of snow expected in the Highlands.  Forecasters warned there will also be wintry showers in parts, most likely in parts of Scotland and northern, eastern and central England.  Met Office meteorologist Richard Miles told the Standard these showers could fall on lower ground but added that these will not be heavy and would not reach as far as London and the south east.  "There will be rain this afternoon and this evening in London," he added.  On Thursday, Brits should expect chilly conditions with a severe frost overnight, Mr Miles said.  He said: "On Thursday temperatures could drop as low as -1C even in the daytime, or it will feel like that with wind chill.  "And Thursday night is going to the the coldest. Overnight in the south east it could drop down to -5C."  He added that anywhere in the UK could see the mercury drop below freezing.  The icy blast comes after cold Arctic air moved southwards to the UK following a sudden stratospheric warming over the north pole.  But while a similar weather pattern sparked last year's so-called "Beast from the East", Mr Miles said the conditions will not be the same as the air has come straight down from the north this year.  Rain and showers in the jet stream are meeting the cold air from the north and mixing to become showers of snow.  This will differ from last year's persistent heavy snow, Mr Miles explained.  Looking ahead to the weekend, the forecaster said the cold weather is here to stay.  The mercury could plunge as low as -7C in central England on Saturday night and it is likely to remain chilly into Monday.


eveningstandard--2019-01-17--UK weather forecast latest Snow and ice warnings in force amid Arctic blast

UK weather forecast latest: Snow and ice warnings in force amid Arctic blast

Weather experts have put snow and ice warnings in force across the UK as the arctic blast freezing the nation continues.  The Met Office has issued an ice warning for the majority of England and all of Wales and Northern Ireland.  This ice warning also reaches up into southern Scotland, while a further warning of snow and ice has been issued for the rest of Scotland including Shetland and the Outer Hebrides.  Met Office forecaster Simon Partridge said: "Be aware that there's the potential for some icy conditions out on the roads.  "Make sure you give yourself a bit of extra time - you will probably need a little longer to scrape the car as well."  A painfully low temperature of minus 3.4C was recorded at Great Dun Fell in Cumbria overnight as many places dropped to freezing or lower.  Patchy rain and sleet was moving in over north Wales early on Thursday morning, which brings the risk of icy stretches on untreated surfaces.  To the north showers were starting to bring snow to parts of Scotland, while flakes were falling on inland areas and higher ground.  The yellow snow and ice warning for Scotland is due to remain in place until midday on Thursday.  The yellow ice warning for Northern Ireland, Wales and England - excluding the far South East and Cornwall - expires at 11am.  Thursday night is set to be coldest of the week, with temperatures potentially as low as minus 5C in some areas.  In to the weekend, a Met Office forecaster previously told the Standard the cold weather is here to stay.  The mercury could plunge as low as -7C in central England on Saturday night then it is likely to remain chilly into Monday.


eveningstandard--2019-01-17--UK weather forecast Met office issues snow and ice alert as temperatures drop below zero

UK weather forecast: Met office issues snow and ice alert as temperatures drop below zero

More snow has been forecast on Friday as the UK braces itself for an overnight freeze with weather warnings in place across the UK.  A whiteout is expected in parts of Wales, while there is also a decent chance of snow in parts of Yorkshire, the north-west and Scotland.  Elsewhere in the country, Friday morning commuters could face disruption following “widespread” overnight frost.  Temperatures are set to plummet well below freezing overnight.  It comes after the Met Office issued weather warnings on Thursday following snow and ice in eastern areas of England.  Meteorologist John West told the Standard: “We are going to see clouds coming from the west, with bands of rain in Devon and Cornwall and west Wales by dawn.  "That rain, as it moves across the country, will turn into snow over the Welsh Hills. We are expecting disruption to travel.”  Mr West added there is a possibility of sleet and snow on Friday over the Lake District, Pennines and some parts of Scotland.  Of the rest of the UK, Mr West continued: "Tonight is going to be really cold. There will be widespread frost across the UK.  "Temperatures could plummet below -2C or -3C, and it’s going to be the first hard frost of the year."  “In some sheltered areas of Scotland, the temperatures will go as low as -11."  However, for other parts of the country - including London and the south-east - Mr West said there will be no snow but “plenty of dry weather – and again a very cold day”.  The capital saw its first snow flurries of the year on Thursday afternoon.  On Friday, temperatures in London are expected to be 1C at 9am, rising to 6C at 3pm on what will be a cloudy day.


eveningstandard--2019-01-18--UK weather forecast Snow and ice alert as deep freeze set to send mercury plummeting as low as -12C

UK weather forecast: Snow and ice alert as deep freeze set to send mercury plummeting as low as -12C

Snow and ice warnings have been issued as wintry conditions grip the UK with temperatures expected to plummet as low as -12C in some parts of the country.  A whiteout was forecast for parts of Wales, with a chance of snow in areas of Yorkshire, the north-west and Scotland, which is to face the brunt of the big freeze.  The mercury had already fallen to below -4.7c in Braemar, Scotland, as of 10pm on Thursday night, with temperatures dropping about a degree ever hour that passed.  Met Office forecaster Alex Burkill said that, while clouds rolling in could stop more extreme plunges overnight, lows of -12C are still possible in some areas.  Mr Burkill said the chilliest place is likely to be sheltered parts of Scotland such as Braemar, which saw the coldest night of the winter so far on January 3 (-10.5C).  "Winter's here now properly. It feels like winter and the weather's resembling it,” the meteorologist said. "Generally, across much of England, it's going to be very cold and frosty.”  Shap in Cumbria could see a low of -8C (17.6F), Mr Burkill said.  The Met Office issued a yellow warning for snow in Wales from 8am until 1pm, when 2-4cm of snow is expected. A snow and ice warning is also in place along the east coast of England until 10am on Friday morning.


eveningstandard--2019-01-19--UK weather forecast Met Office warn icy conditions are aposhere to stayapos and warns snow coul

UK weather forecast: Met Office warn icy conditions are 'here to stay' and warns snow could fall as early as next week

Icy conditions are here to stay and snow could fall as early as next week, forecasters have warned.  Disruptive snow and plunging temeperatures could fall in London as early as next week, according to the Met office.  The current cold spell will continue over the weekend, with largely grey, gloomy conditions and patches of rain and sleet in southern areas on Saturday, according to the Met Office.  There is a chance a prolonged cold snap could last for several weeks, but weather models are currently unable to make confident predictions.  The uncertainty comes from a sudden stratospheric warming event at the end of December, causing temperatures to rapidly rise in the atmosphere, leaving open the possibility of an extended cold period.  Temperatures sunk as low as -9C (16F) in parts of northern Scotland as the weekend began, while in the South conditions hovered a few degrees above freezing.  In London, largely grey, gloomy conditions and patches of rain and sleet were predicted for Saturday, while a band of snow is expected to hit the north of the UK on Sunday.  At the start of next week, conditions look set to turn even colder with the possibility of disruptive heavy rain, sleet and snow across the country.  The Met Office is also not ruling out sleet and snow in lower areas of the country on Monday and Tuesday.  “Most of the snow will be in higher ground and the further north you go the more likely for snow in those areas,” spokesman Mark Wilson said.  “At the moment we’re not expecting it in London but it is not completely out of the question,” he added.  Rain and patchy, low-lying snow are possible across much of central and eastern England through Saturday, Met Office meteorologist Aidan McGivern said.  A cold front sweeping in from the North West on Sunday morning will bring fresh dustings of hill snow for the Highlands and Grampians in Scotland, and then the Pennines in northern England and Snowdonia in Wales as it sinks south, he added.  Conditions look set to turn colder next week with the possibility of heavy rain, sleet and snow across the country.  Mr McGivern said: "The cold weather is here to stay for now, and there could be more significant cold and disruptive snow at times through next week.  "Still a lot of uncertainty, so we're keeping a keen eye on that here at the Met Office."