West Midlands weather: Wintry weekend with up to 20cm of snow to fall
Snow will hit the West Midlands on Friday and continue throughout the weekend, with up to 20cm of snowfall expected across the UK.
The snow forecast for the end of the week is now predicted to last until Sunday, with 'isolated snow showers' and 'snow accumulations' expected in the region on both days of the weekend, says a spokesperson for the Met Office.
The band of snow and ice is now expected to reach further south than previously predicted, with the whole region now likely to be affected rather than just Stafford and parts of Shropshire.
Arctic air started to sweep the country this morning in the wake of Storm Caroline, which brought 'hazardous winds' to Scotland and Northern Ireland overnight.
Temperatures are due to drop throughout the day, reaching freezing in the early hours of tomorrow morning and dropping again to -1C (30.2F) by lunchtime on Friday.
Today's weather forecast from the Met Office
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for tomorrow and Saturday due to snow and dangerously icy conditions.
A further warning has been issued for Sunday, when a 'spell of heavy snow' is possible over central parts of the UK.
The Met Office warns that 'this could lead to road, rail and air travel delays, with the potential for vehicles to become stranded or public transport to be cancelled'.
The cold snap is due to ease a little on Monday, which should 'turn brighter with more isolated wintry showers' say the Met Office.
Meanwhile gritters are ready to go across the region, while parents have been advised to check school websites should snow fall.
WATCH: Staffordshire gritters ready to roll
Staffordshire County Council’s cabinet support member for highways and transport Helen Fisher said: “People should slow down even on gritted roads and also be prepared by ensuring they have a blanket in their car in the event of a breakdown.
"We would also urge people to avoid travelling unless absolutely necessary where there is heavier snow fall. Our gritting teams are well prepared and set to head out countywide.”
Public health chiefs in Wolverhampton urged people to look out for others and take extra care.
They said they had received a level three cold weather alert which indicates a 90 per cent chance of ice or snow in the area.
Councillor Paul Sweet, cabinet member for public health and wellbeing, said: “It is critical people stay warm when indoors, particularly if they’re aged 65 or over, or have long term health conditions.
"Homes should be kept at a minimum of 18C, and wearing lots of thin layers and eating hot food will help people stay warm.
“I’d also urge people to look out for friends and neighbours who may be vulnerable to the cold.”
