UK weather warning – ‘Potential risk to life’ as heavy snow and freezing temperatures hit Britain.
The Met Office said there was a good chance rural communities will be cut off with heavy snow showers likely in parts of the country.
Commuters face disruption to public transport and on the roads, with some rail operators limiting services in anticipation of the big freeze.
Some regions are set to feel colder than the Arctic Circle as “exceptional” freezing temperatures continue into the week ahead.
The Met Office has issued amber snow warnings for north-east, central and south-east England on Tuesday, and eastern Scotland on Wednesday.
An amber warning means an increased likelihood of bad weather causing “road and rail closures, interruption to power and the potential risk to life and property”.
The Met Office said: “Travel delays on roads are likely, stranding some vehicles and passengers. Some delays and cancellations to rail and air travel are likely.
“There is a good chance that some rural communities could become cut off. Power cuts are likely and other services, such as mobile phones, may be affected.”
Public Health England said people should prepare for a “significant and prolonged period of wintry weather”.
Dr Thomas Waite, of the body’s extreme events team said: “Cold temperatures, indoors and out, pose real health risks to many and every winter we know that thousands of people get ill and even die following exposure to cold conditions.
“As forecasters tell us next week temperatures will fall, it’s critical that if you know anyone over 65, with young children or who has heart or lung conditions, that you keep an eye on them and think what help they may need. Staying warm by heating your home to at least 18°C can be crucial to stay well.”
