Extended snow and ice warnings as Arctic air brings disruption across UK

Snow and ice warnings have been extended across much of the UK, with an amber alert in Scotland from midday on Friday until 12:00 on Saturday and yellow warnings across the south-west, north-west and east coast of England, plus Wales and Northern Ireland until Monday. The Met Office predicts up to 40cm of snow in parts of Scotland and around 5cm across England and Wales, with travel delays, cancellations and possible power cuts expected.

Sub-zero temperatures are forecast for Friday night, including minimums of -6C to -8C across much of Scotland and -4C to -5C in rural areas of England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Temperatures are expected to barely rise above zero on Saturday. Snow showers are likely in Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and on parts of the south-west and east coast of England, while other areas may see winter sunshine.

The amber warning describes "disruptive snow" that could delay rail and air travel and create dangerous conditions. Angus, Perth and Kinross, Grampian, Aberdeenshire, Moray and parts of the Highlands were highlighted as likely to face blizzard conditions, possible power cuts and stranded vehicles.

Scottish gritters and snowploughs are operating across the road network, and some ScotRail services have been cancelled. National Highways reported multiple crashes in Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire and urged motorists to seek alternative routes where possible.

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