HEALTH WARNINGS ISSUED AS SOMERSET AND DEVON GRIPPED BY SNOW AND ICE - ❄️
Report by Duncan Williams for Pulman's Weekly News
Freezing conditions have descended on South Somerset and East Devon as the Met Office issues amber weather warnings, forecasting treacherous weather and a dramatic plunge in temperatures. The warnings highlight the potential for severe disruption, with snow and icy conditions persisting into the weekend.
Residents in the South West woke midweek to snowfall and icy conditions, prompting urgent safety messages from authorities. Temperatures are expected to fall to as low as minus 16°C in some parts of the UK, with the Met Office’s Oli Claydon describing Thursday night as “bitterly cold”.
The UK Health Security Agency has extended its amber cold weather health alert for England until Sunday, warning of heightened risks to vulnerable groups.
Dr Agostinho Sousa of the agency said, “We are extending the duration of our Cold-Health Alert, since the Met Office are forecasting that the low temperatures we are seeing will continue further into this week, with snow and icy conditions likely to persist.
“This weather can have a serious impact on the health of some people, including those aged 65 and over and those with pre-existing health conditions, and it is therefore vital that we continue to check in on friends, family and neighbours that are most vulnerable. These people could be more at risk of heart attacks, stroke and chest infections as a result of cold temperatures.”
With the amber warning comes the risk of power cuts, stranded vehicles, and significant delays to rail and air travel. Devon and Cornwall Police have advised residents to avoid unnecessary journeys, sharing on social media that snowfall is being reported in the counties and more bursts are on the way.
Motorists are particularly urged to exercise caution. The RAC has seen record levels of rescue requests, with spokeswoman Alice Simpson warning, “Cold conditions will last until at least the weekend, so we urge drivers to remain vigilant of the risks posed by ice and, in some locations, snow. Black ice on rural roads can be impossible to spot, leaving very little time to react if driving at speed. Sticking to major roads that are most likely to have been gritted is strongly recommended.”
The Met Office warns of the likelihood of stranded vehicles, icy patches, and the potential for travel chaos. Residents are bracing for more snow showers and plunging temperatures, preparing for further disruption as the week progresses.
As the icy grip tightens, authorities continue to emphasise vigilance and care for the most vulnerable members of the community during this severe cold snap.