Met Office upgrades snow and ice warning for Dorset to amber

The Met Office upgraded its weather warning of snow and ice for Dorset from yellow to amber yesterday. The warning is in place for Thursday and Friday.

However there is also a warning of snow showers today.

There is the potential for travel delays on roads, with some stranded vehicles and passengers, as well as delays or cancellations to rail and air travel. Some rural communities could become cut off. Power cuts may also occur and other services, such as mobile phones, may be affected.

Here's the latest news on travel and roads.

Today, snow showers are expected during the afternoon and into the evening.

Temperatures are not expected to get above 0 degrees Celsius all day, but may feel like up to -11 degrees.

It comes as snow began falling in south Dorset yesterday - here's a video of snow flurries on the Granby Industrial Estate

Snow (and sunshine) in Weymouth by Chris Harker

It says: "There is the potential for a spell of snow, moving northwards over southern Britain on Thursday, to intensify and become heavy on Thursday afternoon/evening as it spreads north.

"Some places could also see significant ice build up overnight into Friday.

"Long delays and cancellations to public transport could occur, whilst some roads may become blocked by deep snow, stranding vehicles and passengers. Long interruptions to power supplies and other utilities could occur."

The chief forecaster added: "A weather system is expected to move slowly north through Thursday, intensifying and pushing north across the warning area from Thursday afternoon.

"As it comes into contact with the very cold air resident over the UK, it has potential to produce widespread snow, accompanied by strong to gale force winds.

"As less cold air follows from the south, there is a chance of snow turning to freezing rain bringing an additional significant ice risk. There is still uncertainty in how this system will develop, but there is a chance that the combined effects of snow, strong winds and ice will lead to severe impacts."

Snow in Radipole Gardens by Linda Stevenson (Echo Camera Club)

Experts have issued advice on staying safe in the cold weather.

A spokesman for the Met Office said: "It's going to be a cold week – the coldest since 2013.

A snow map issued by the Met Office for parts of the UK

"Temperatures are going to struggle to get above freezing throughout Dorset. Because the cold air is coming from the east, there is a wind-chill factor too, so it might feel as cold as minus 9 or 10 degrees."

The spokesman added that the weather would be exacerbated by a weather front –named Storm Emma – moving up from the south, which could combine with the Beast from the East to cause blizzard conditions from Thursday onwards. 

Meanwhile in Swanage, a flood warning has been issued for tomorrow evening. The warning is for high tide from tomorrow to Saturday. Strong easterly winds of up to force 8 are also expected. Flood defences will be deployed at The Square and by the stone pier at Swanage.

Doctors from Public Health England are warning residents about the impact that cold weather can have on health.

Dr Thomas Waite of Public Health England's Extreme Events Team said: “With more cold and for some snow on the way, now is the time to think ahead. Consider what you need to stock up on, do you need food or essential supplies such as medicines? It may be harder for some people to get out later this week when more snow arrives, so if you know someone at risk, someone with heart or lung conditions, young children or who is over 65, please take the time to check and see if there’s anything they need.

“Also remember that we are not all used to temperatures like this so keep homes heated to at least 18 degrees. If you’re able to clear paths of snow or ice, do so. Everyone should keep up to date with weather forecasts so you’re not caught out. Staying well in conditions like this can be a challenge, so if you can check on someone whose health may be at risk, please do.”

Here are some top tips to prepare for the colder weather:

•             Look out for friends and family who may be vulnerable to the cold and ensure they have access to warm food and drinks and are managing to heat their homes adequately.

•             Try to maintain indoor temperatures to at least 18C, particularly if you are not mobile, have long term illness or are 65 or over.

•             Stay tuned for weather forecasts, ensure you are stocked with food and medications in advance (but avoid stockpiling), arrange deliveries or ask a friend to help.

•             Take weather into account when planning your activity over the coming days.

•             If eligible seek entitlements and benefits such as Winter Fuel Payments and Cold Weather Payments, which are available to some.

•             If you meet the criteria, register for priority service with your energy and water suppliers.

•             Avoid exposing yourself to cold or icy outdoor conditions if you are at a higher risk of cold related illness or falls

•             Discuss with friends and neighbours about clearing snow and ice from in front of your house and public walkways nearby.