Snow and ice is causing chaos, but it’s important to ensure your house is kept at a warm temperature to stay healthy …
West Dunbartonshire and Helensburgh and Lomond saw temperatores plunge this morning and residents had a job on their hands starting their cars and scraping the ice off them.
Many of them found it difficult to keep their feet on icy pavements and driveways as they headed for the bus stops and stations on the way to work.
On what was the coldest night of the season so far, those who could afford it turned up the heating, but pensioners in particular will be struggling to afford the bills without the Scottish Winter Fuel allowance.
One local family, admittedly with a large house, was staring down the barrel of a gas and heating bill in the region of £350 while the TV news was telling them that they could soon be facing an additional £20 hike. At 10.30pm the temperature in Dumbartpn was -1C.
The days of “a shilling for the meter” have long disappeared into the last century.
Temperatures plummeted to a bone-chilling -7.8C further north and if it wasn’t that bad here it still marked the lowest temperature recorded in the UK since last winter.
The Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings that are in place until Thursday, November 21 for Scotland with more snow and ice.
Forecasters predict cold and unsettled conditions throughout the week, with up to 20cm of snow expected in some areas.
The national forecaster advised: “Daytime temperatures will be in the low single figures for most, potentially slightly less cold in the far south, though sub-zero wind chill is likely. Despite the cold temperatures, there will be a good deal of sunshine away from the wintry showers near the coasts.”
They also warned: “Further snow accumulations are expected across the week, mostly by night at low levels, in northern Scotland and exposed parts elsewhere.
The UK is seeing its first significant snow of the season as a cold snap sweeps across the country.
With snow already falling across northern Scotland, the West will take the brunt of it on Thursday and other parts of the country will join in as a low pressure system moves in from the Atlantic.
Cold health alerts and two Met Office yellow warnings for snow and ice are in place with disruption possible, according to the forecasts tonight (Wednesday).
Snow for all?
Forecasting snow at lower levels is always tricky for weather women such as Lucy Verasamy, pictured right, especially in mid-November when the ground and the surrounding seas are still relatively warm compared to midwinter.
But you can still expect spells of sleet and wet snow as cold air digs in behind the low pressure system.
For many, though, this will be a spell of wet and windy weather with most of the sleet and snow expected over higher ground.
Drivers have been warned they could face hefty fines for removing their winter coats while driving as winter finally arrives. And it’s now a crime to drive with an iced up windscreen, windows and rear view mirror. So watch out for traffic police or better still don’t drive with your vision impaired.
All this comes as we brace ourselves for the ‘double Arctic blast’ predicted to hit the UK, with many aware of the need for caution on icy roads. However, most are likely unaware of specific DVLA rules related to winter weather that could result in substantial fines and points on their licence.
How long will the cold snap last?
The cold weather is forecast to last until the weekend with cold and frosty nights expected for most of this week and daytime temperatures of only 3-8C.
With a brisk northerly wind, there will also be a significant wind chill making it feel much colder than it is. However, many inland areas will see plenty of crisp sunshine this week with wintry showers remaining confined to coastal areas in the West.
The UK Health Security Agency has issued a cold health alert. It states that weather conditions are likely to have minor impacts on health and social care services, including increased use of healthcare services and a greater risk to life for vulnerable people.
And the local health board have offered advice to people walking on frozen pavements and other hazardous areas to be careful when out and about and have repeated sound advice to members of the public to “walk like a penguin”.
RAC Breakdown has warned drivers to look out for the effects of a cold spell on car batteries. RAC Breakdown spokeswoman Alice Simpson said: “Frost, ice and snow all put more strain on car batteries so if a vehicle struggles to start, it’s either a sign that the battery needs charging or that it’s about to fail altogether and needs replacing.
“We strongly suggest drivers get their battery checked by a mobile mechanic or garage as soon as possible.
“Taking your car for a 30-minute drive before you need it and switching all electrics off when you finish your journey are effective ways to reduce the chances of an unwanted flat start.
“In freezing conditions, it’s also well worth packing a blanket, warm waterproof coat and gloves, sturdy boots and a mobile power bank for all eventualities.”
Dogs Trust have warned pet owners to be wary of the hidden dangers of antifreeze as temperatures continue to drop.
Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol which is a highly toxic substance that can cause severe illness or even death in pets if ingested.
Even if a very small amount is ingested it can be fatal. Pets can suffer irreversible kidney failure and neurological issues if they drink the sweet tasting antifreeze.
West Dunbartonshire Council
