UK thaws, but more ice on the way

Written by Anna Korba

Sunday, 17 January 2010 21:51

Rain and milder temperatures will hasten the thaw with the mercury rising up to 10C in south-west England.

However, respite from the freezing conditions could prove brief as temperatures will plunge again by the end of next week, bringing a risk of more snow and ice.

There were concerns that parts of the UK will be deluged with flooding as rain comes in on warmer winds from the South West in the coming days.

An Environment Agency spokesman explained: "There may be an increased risk of flooding in some areas over the weekend due to predicted heavy rain and the partial thawing of snow due to slightly higher temperatures, and we continue to closely monitor weather conditions and river levels.

"Whilst snow is deep in some places, the small amount of water that results from snow melt is not expected to cause significant flooding problems if it happens steadily over many days.

"With the forecast rainfall, this thawing may happen more quickly."

The British Red Cross urged people to prepare against flooding. Martin Annis, head of Emergency Planning, said: "We urge people to observe simple tips when preparing, such as packing essential items and documents they will need if evacuated, preparing an emergency kit with water and first-aid pack; as well as keeping a regular check of TV and radio updates."

Andy Ratcliffe, forecaster at MeteoGroup, the weather division of the Press Association, said the thaw will continue to gather pace as rain and milder air moves in from the West.

He said: "Rain will spread across the country from the West ... falling as sleet or snow as it reaches higher ground in northern England and Scotland. But there won't be big accumulations (of snow) and it will turn to rain during the day. The thaw will continue over the weekend but from mid-week it will turn colder again with the risk of more snow."

metro.co.uk