Snow and Ice Grip UK as Prolonged Cold Snap Disrupts Schools and Travel

A prolonged spell of winter weather continues to disrupt daily life across the United Kingdom, with snow, ice and freezing temperatures forcing school closures, slowing travel and prompting fresh weather warnings as conditions are set to worsen.

Hundreds of schools in Scotland remained closed on Wednesday as icy roads and heavy snowfall made travel unsafe for pupils and staff. Local authorities said conditions varied sharply between regions, but many rural and higher altitude areas remained particularly affected, with temperatures struggling to rise above freezing.

The Met Office said yellow weather warnings for snow and ice remain in place across northern Scotland, cautioning residents about hazardous travel conditions and the risk of slips and falls. Forecasters warned that even where snowfall eases, compacted snow and refreezing meltwater could continue to pose dangers.

Attention is now turning to further south, where more severe weather is expected. Amber warnings for heavy snow have been issued for parts of England from Thursday evening, covering the Midlands, South Yorkshire, Gloucestershire and sections of Wales. The warnings indicate a higher likelihood of disruption, including delays to road and rail transport and possible power outages.

The worsening conditions are linked to the arrival of Storm Goretti, which meteorologists say will bring a combination of snow, rain and strong winds. The system is forecast to track across the UK, introducing milder air in some areas but increasing instability as it interacts with cold ground conditions.

Forecasters say Storm Goretti could also bring powerful wind gusts to coastal regions. Parts of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly are expected to experience gusts of up to 90 miles per hour, raising the risk of fallen trees, travel disruption and damage to coastal infrastructure. Residents in exposed areas have been advised to secure loose items and avoid unnecessary travel during peak conditions.

Transport operators across the UK are preparing for further disruption. Road authorities warned drivers to check conditions before setting out and to carry essentials in case of delays. Rail companies said services could be affected by snow on tracks, frozen points and strong winds, particularly on exposed routes.

The cold snap has also increased pressure on emergency services and local councils. Gritting teams have been working around the clock to treat major roads, while councils have opened warming centres for vulnerable residents in some areas. Health officials urged people to check on elderly neighbours and those with existing health conditions.

Meteorologists say the cold spell has been driven by a sustained flow of Arctic air, bringing temperatures well below seasonal averages. While brief milder interludes are possible as weather systems pass through, forecasters caution that winter conditions are likely to persist in parts of the country for several more days.

Climate experts note that while the UK is experiencing long term warming trends, extreme cold events remain possible and can be intensified by shifts in atmospheric circulation. Sudden changes between mild and freezing conditions can be particularly disruptive, increasing the risk of ice formation.

As Storm Goretti approaches, authorities are urging the public to stay informed through official updates and heed weather warnings. With schools closed, transport under strain and hazardous conditions expected to continue, the coming days are set to test the resilience of communities across the UK as winter tightens its grip.