Wintry Conditions Grip UK Amid Snow and Ice
Britain faces plummeting temperatures as snow blankets various regions, plunging to -7C. The Met Office issues widespread ice warnings and an amber cold health alert for several areas, anticipating an extended period of cold weather with significant impacts on health services.
Snow and Ice Spread Across Multiple Regions
From County Durham to Kent, Cumbria to London, snowflakes were witnessed, exacerbating existing flood woes.
Over 300 Environment Agency alerts or warnings remain in effect following intense rainfall that deluged over 1,800 properties.
Warnings and Disruptions Persist
A new ice warning has been issued for southern England and South Wales, anticipating up to 2cm of snow in certain areas, particularly over higher ground.
Train services continue to face disruptions due to flooding, affecting routes like Great Western Railway and CrossCountry.
Health Alerts and Political Responses
An amber cold health alert covers various regions, signaling prolonged cold impacts on health services. Labour leader Keir Starmer criticizes the government’s flood response, highlighting the need for preemptive action and the establishment of a flood resilience task force.
Government’s Defense and Environmental Agency’s Assessment
Chancellor Rishi Sunak defends the government’s efforts, emphasizing significant investments in flood defenses, protection of homes, and support provided amid the recent flooding.
The Environment Agency warns of potential additional property flooding, especially along the Trent, Severn, and Thames rivers.
Health Concerns Amid Freezing Temperatures
With the cold snap set to continue, health experts urge vigilance, especially for vulnerable groups at risk of health complications due to the cold.
The UK Health Security Agency emphasizes the need to check on the wellbeing of those most susceptible to the adverse effects of extreme cold weather.