Snow and ice warnings issued for South West Wales as cold snap bites
The snow and ice warning runs from Wednesday at 12pm until midnight on Thursday.
A wider ice warning is in place from midnight tonight until 11am on Wednesday, covering the rest of Wales.
Wintry showers sweeping in
Forecasters say a band of rain, sleet and snow is moving southeastwards, with showers expected to turn wintry over higher ground in Carmarthenshire and inland Pembrokeshire. Coastal areas, including Swansea and Gower, are more likely to see icy patches forming overnight as temperatures dip close to freezing.
Met Office Chief Forecaster Neil Armstrong explained:
“Cold Arctic air from the north is firmly in charge of the UK’s weather, bringing the first notable cold snap of this autumn and giving an early taste of winter weather. Wintry showers will affect areas exposed to the brisk northerly wind, in particular southwest Wales.”
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How much snow could fall?
Not everywhere will see lying snow, but where showers are most frequent, 2–5 cm of snow could accumulate. Higher ground in Carmarthenshire is most at risk, while Swansea and Pembrokeshire may see sleet or slushy conditions. The Met Office warns that untreated surfaces could quickly become hazardous.
Ice a bigger risk for many
Beyond snowfall, ice is expected to be the more widespread hazard. With clear skies overnight, temperatures are forecast to fall well below average for mid‑November, creating tricky travel conditions on Thursday morning.
Armstrong added:
“Daytime temperatures will stay in low single figures for many, and overnight ice could create particularly difficult conditions for drivers and pedestrians.”
Health advice as cold snap continues
NHS 24 Executive Medical Director Dr Ron Cook urged residents to take extra care:
“Cold weather can be particularly challenging for older people, young children, and those with long‑term health conditions. Please check on neighbours and loved ones to ensure they have what they need to stay warm and safe.”
He advised sturdy footwear, allowing more time for journeys, and keeping medication handy for those with asthma or COPD, as cold air can make breathing more difficult.
Looking ahead to the weekend
The Met Office says conditions should ease by Friday, with drier weather for many and temperatures gradually turning milder. Rain is expected to reach western areas later in the day, followed by fronts crossing from west to east on Saturday. Further wet and windy weather is possible on Sunday.
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