Ice Warning Issued in Somerset as Temperatures Plummet to -2°C

Residents in Somerset and surrounding areas have been alerted to an impending freeze, as the Met Office issues an ice warning effective from midnight on Wednesday, 19 November, until 11am. Forecasters predict that surface water and hill snow will freeze overnight, leading to dangerously icy roads and walkways by morning.

The warning covers Bristol, parts of Somerset and Gloucestershire, as well as much of the western UK. Rainfall moving southwards on Tuesday night into Wednesday morning may briefly fall as snow on elevated areas before clearing. Following this, clear skies will cause temperatures to fall to freezing or below, creating hazardous icy patches, especially on untreated surfaces.

While significant snow accumulations are expected mainly above 300 meters, some slushy snow may linger on grassy areas at lower elevations. Despite missing the heavier snow seen elsewhere in the UK, Somerset will still experience temperatures dropping as low as -2°C, increasing the risk of icy conditions overnight.

The Met Office has also issued snow and ice warnings for Devon and Cornwall, with expected rainfall and hail today and tonight. Meanwhile, the UK Health Security Agency has issued a cold weather warning covering several regions including the East and West Midlands, North East, North West, and Yorkshire and the Humber. This warning, active from Monday until Friday, highlights the upcoming cold snap.

Deputy Chief Forecaster Tom Crabtree commented: “Wednesday to Friday will bring the coldest conditions of the week, with temperatures potentially dropping to -10°C overnight and strong northerly winds adding a significant wind chill. Wintry snow showers will affect northern coastal areas, with accumulations ranging from 2-20 cm depending on elevation.”

Daytime temperatures will remain well below average with widespread frost at night, especially in sheltered pockets. The public is advised to monitor weather updates closely, as further revisions to warnings may be issued as the cold spell progresses.