Storm Bert to Bring Snow, Rain, and Strong Winds to the UK This Weekend
The second named storm of the season, Storm Bert, is set to batter the UK with snow, rain, and strong winds this weekend, the Met Office has warned.
Hundreds of schools have already been closed as freezing temperatures and adverse weather conditions disrupt daily life. Heavy snow, particularly in Scotland and northern England, along with potential flooding in western areas, is expected to cause significant travel disruption over the coming days.
Weather Warnings and Forecast
Wind gusts of up to 70mph are forecast in some areas, with heavy rain and snow predicted to exacerbate the situation. Severe weather warnings have been issued for Saturday and Sunday, while wintry showers will continue to affect parts of the country on Thursday and Friday.
The Met Office has issued an alert for snow and ice across much of Scotland, northern England, and parts of western and eastern England and Wales. This warning covers the period from midday on Thursday to 10am on Friday.
Deputy Chief Meteorologist Dan Holley commented:
“Storm Bert marks a shift to much milder air, and wintry hazards will gradually diminish through the weekend. However, heavy snowfall is expected across parts of northern England and Scotland for a time on Saturday, especially over higher ground, and warnings are in place.”
Heavy rain is likely in southern and western regions, with areas under weather warnings bracing for 50-75mm of rainfall. Wales and southwest England could see upwards of 100mm.
School Closures
Adverse conditions have forced widespread school closures. In Scotland, over 114 schools in the Highland Council area, including Inverness Royal Academy, were shut on Thursday due to snow. Pupils at Inverness Royal Academy have been informed that their prelim exams planned for Thursday will be rescheduled.
Aberdeenshire saw nearly 40 schools closed or delayed in opening, while Moray had approximately 12 closures with others opening late. This follows a wave of closures on Wednesday, when more than 100 schools or nurseries in Scotland were affected by the weather.
In England and Wales, school closures were equally widespread. Devon reported 89 closures on Thursday, Dorset had 18, and Cornwall saw 60. Meanwhile, in Wales, 10 schools were shut in Conwy, 18 in Denbighshire, and two in Wrexham.
Travel Disruption and Flooding
The Met Office has warned that the weekend’s storm could bring significant travel delays and an increased risk of flooding, particularly in areas hardest hit by heavy rainfall. With a mix of wintry hazards, including snow, ice, and high winds, travellers are urged to stay informed and exercise caution.
As the UK braces for Storm Bert, residents in affected areas are advised to follow updates from the Met Office and local authorities to stay safe and prepared.
