Yellow weather warning for snow and ice issued

The Met Office has warned of “disruptive snow” with an arctic airmass set to bring cold air to the UK next week.

Deputy chief meteorologist David Hayter said a northerly airflow will bring arctic air to the UK from Sunday, with snow showers focused around Northern Ireland and northern areas of Scotland.

The Met Office has issued a further yellow warning of showers, increasingly falling as snow, bringing some disruption to parts of Northern Ireland from Monday.

The warning, which was issued on Friday morning, covers all of Northern Ireland, with northern counties expected to see the more frequent showers, from 3.00am on Monday.

The forecaster says brisk northerly winds will drive showers well inland across Northern Ireland on Monday, with these initially falling as snow over higher ground and sleet and rain elsewhere

However, as increasingly cold air spreads south, showers will fall as snow to all levels by late morning. Up to 5cm of snow is likely over higher routes such as the Coleraine Mountain road and Glenshane Pass.

At lower levels, a few cms can be expected, with northern counties expected to see the more frequent showers. Ice will be an additional hazard for all areas into the evening.

RAC Breakdown said travel plans could be affected, with drivers advised to be prepared in the event of a breakdown during the cold weather.

RAC Breakdown spokesperson Simon Williams advised drivers to pack warm clothes in the boot, and bring a power bank to keep their phones charged.

“With an increasing risk of snow and ice at the start of next week we urge drivers to make sure they travel fully prepared,” he said.

⚠️ Yellow weather warning issued ⚠️

Snow and ice across Northern Ireland

Monday 0300 – 2359

Latest info https://t.co/QwDLMfRBfs

Stay #WeatherAware⚠️ pic.twitter.com/4US3PUV8h5

— Met Office (@metoffice) January 12, 2024

“Having a few essential items in the boot no matter what distance you’re going can make a massive difference in a breakdown situation in freezing conditions.

“A warm, waterproof coat, sturdy footwear and gloves, along with a blanket and a power bank to keep your phone charged are vital.

“While no one sets out to break down or get stuck in very cold, potentially snowy conditions, there are far too many instances where drivers have underestimated the severity of the conditions and found themselves in danger.

“It’s far better to prepare for the worst and hope for the best.”