A cold and windy Polar maritime airmass, with its origins over northern Canada, will spread southwards across the UK in the next 24 hours, bringing a real taste of winter to the whole of the UK from tomorrow (Thursday 12 January).
It will be a windy spell of weather and many parts of the UK can expect to see some snow showers and widespread overnight frosts.
National Severe Weather Warnings have been issued for wind and snow, with the heaviest and most frequent snow showers likely across northern and western Scotland, Northern Ireland and around Irish Sea coasts, but eastern coasts will also be affected at times on Friday and Saturday.
There will be gales which could lead to temporary blizzard conditions as well as a risk of hail and thunder in some locations.
Farmers are being urged by the industry to take extra care during extreme weather, and to stay safe and well on farm.
Although the south of the UK is likely to avoid the majority of the snow showers, this area will have a wet day on Thursday with persistent heavy rain for much of the day, which is expected to turn to sleet or snow for a time in the afternoon and evening.
For Friday and as we head into the weekend it looks like the cold weather will continue although snow showers will become more isolated. Inland areas will be more sheltered and so may escape any snow altogether.
'Be mindful'
NFU Vice President Guy Smith said he wanted to stress the importance of keeping vigilant when it comes to preventing life-threatening accidents during the winter months.
“The last thing any of us want to hear about is a farming fatality, a grieving family and a community in shock,” said Mr Smith.
“Figures for deaths on farm dropped to 29 last year but that downward trend hasn’t been maintained and it’s likely it’ll rise to nearer the average of 37 for 2016/17. That’s why we are continuing to support the farm safety campaign and educate farmers to stay safe on the farm.
Mr Smith concluded: “As winter closes in farmers just need to be mindful of working alone and doing jobs around the farm in adverse weather conditions. There needs to be an element of common sense and safety involved in all decisions – because “I’m in a hurry” is not a good enough reason. Instead just ask yourself “Who would fill your boots?” if something serious were to happen to you.”
