Heavy rain set to hit Yorkshire and Derbyshire just days after freezing temperatures
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for Sunday
Last updated 18th Jan 2024
Heavy rain that could lead to flooding and travel disruption is set to hit large parts of the country this weekend, including Yorkshire and Derbyshire.
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for rain, just days after sub-zero temperatures saw flights cancelled and schools closed.
Much of the UK endured temperatures below freezing overnight, with preliminary data from the Met Office indicating the mercury fell to as low as minus 13.6C at Tulloch Bridge in the Highlands.
It comes after the UK had its coldest night of the winter so far on Tuesday into Wednesday, when Dalwhinnie in the Highlands experienced a temperature of minus 14C.
Separatly, shorter snow and ice warnings were in place for Wales and south-west England until 11am on Thursday, and in eastern England until midday.
Met Office chief meteorologist Jason Kelly said: "With deep snow already lying on the ground for many in the northern half of the UK, we're going to see a significant topping up of totals over the next couple of days, especially for those in the north of Scotland.
"Within the amber warning area, an additional 15-20cm of snow is possible in a few locations.
"Strengthening northwesterly winds will also cause some lying snow to drift, potentially bringing some additional hazards, such as temporary blizzard conditions."
National Rail warned the wintry weather could affect train journeys on Thursday.
In Northern Ireland, people have been urged not to travel unless it is "absolutely essential" because of limited gritting of the roads in zero-degree temperatures as public sector workers walk out in the biggest strike in the region's recent history.
Another frosty night is forecast into Friday, and while it will be breezier with more cloud in places, lows of minus 10C will again be likely in some areas.