THE Met Office has issued an official ice warning for Somerset as temperatures tumble across the UK.

Arctic air swirling across the country has brought heavy snow to Scotland, the North and East of England, Wales as well as flurries to Wellington and the Blackdown Hills, with the cold snap set to remain for the rest of the week.

Forecasters have now issued an official ice warning for most of Somerset and parts of the region, which will be in place from 5pm today until 10am tomorrow (November 20).

Met Office Chief Meteorologist Neil Armstrong said: “With cold Arctic air firmly in place over the UK, continued winter hazards are likely through much of this week, with further updates to warnings likely in the coming days.”

The Met Office says cold northerly winds will continue through the week across much of the UK, with further warnings likely.

There remains a possibility of a more organised band of rain and hill snow affecting the south west throughout Thursday as a larger system runs into the continent, though there remains some uncertainty on this element. The weather is expected to turn wetter and milder by the weekend.

Met Office on what to expect

  • Probably some icy patches on some untreated roads, pavements and cycle paths
  • Some injuries from slips and falls on icy surfaces

Rain, sleet and snow will continue to clear southwards across England and Wales with clearing skies to follow. Temperatures are expected to fall below or close to freezing quite widely across the warning area with icy patches forming on untreated freezing surfaces.

What should I do?

Keep yourself and your family safe when it is icy. Plan to leave the house at least five minutes earlier than normal. Not needing to rush, reduces your risk of accidents, slips, and falls.

If you need to make a journey on foot, try to use pavements along main roads which are likely to be less slippery. Similarly, if cycling, try and stick to main roads which are more likely to have been treated.

Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary.

Be prepared for weather warnings to change: when a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area.