Brits are being advised to prepare for wintery conditions as a cold snap is set to hit the country next week. The sudden change in weather is due to a major Sudden Stratospheric Warming that has been taking place above the North Pole, causing the winds in the stratosphere surrounding the North Pole to reverse.
Met Office forecaster, Aidan McGivern, explained the potential impact of the warming:
"It can have a drag effect on the jet stream which can slow the jet stream down - which can in turn lead to higher pressure at the surface, a blocking area of high pressure, blocking wind and rain from the Atlantic and sometimes also colder conditions. That’s why Sudden Stratospheric Warmings increase the chance of cold weather."
McGivern emphasized that although the SSW increases the chance of cold weather, the weather can be unpredictable and there is no guarantee that there will be significant snow or widespread fros
t.
While the weather is not guaranteed to be severe, it is best to take precautions during the winter months. The Met Office advises people to stay indoors during icy and snowy conditions if possible, to wear sturdy footwear with good grip, and to be careful on slippery surfaces.
Despite this, many Brits are already taking steps to prepare for the potential cold snap. Some are stocking up on supplies and winter clothing, while others are taking preventative measures to protect their homes and cars from the cold weather.
A spokesperson for the National Federation of Roofing Contractors urged homeowners to make sure their roofs are properly insulated to prevent heat loss, as well as ensuring that gutters and drains are clear of debris to prevent blockages. They also advised checking for any leaks or damage to the roof and having them repaired as soon as possible.
In addition to preparing homes for the cold weather, it is also important to prepare cars for wintery conditions. The Royal Automobile Club (RAC) recommends checking the condition of tyres, brakes, and lights, as well as making sure that the vehicle's battery is in good working order. They also advise keeping a supply of warm clothing, blankets, food, and water in the car in case of an emergency.
The cold weather may also have implications for the energy market, as demand for heating is likely to increase. However, energy experts have stated that the current energy supply is sufficient to meet demand, and that people should not worry about potential blackouts.
And don't forget that the cold weather sets in, it's crucial to look out for the wellbeing of our feathered friends. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) recommends providing extra food and water for wild birds during snowy conditions. "When the ground is frozen and covered in snow, birds struggle to find their natural food sources," says an RSPB spokesperson. "Birds require high-fat foods such as suet, sunflower seeds, and unsalted peanuts to provide the energy they need to survive the cold weather."
Met Office forecaster, Aidan McGivern, explained the potential impact of the warming:
"It can have a drag effect on the jet stream which can slow the jet stream down - which can in turn lead to higher pressure at the surface, a blocking area of high pressure, blocking wind and rain from the Atlantic and sometimes also colder conditions. That’s why Sudden Stratospheric Warmings increase the chance of cold weather."
McGivern emphasized that although the SSW increases the chance of cold weather, the weather can be unpredictable and there is no guarantee that there will be significant snow or widespread fros
t.
While the weather is not guaranteed to be severe, it is best to take precautions during the winter months. The Met Office advises people to stay indoors during icy and snowy conditions if possible, to wear sturdy footwear with good grip, and to be careful on slippery surfaces.
Despite this, many Brits are already taking steps to prepare for the potential cold snap. Some are stocking up on supplies and winter clothing, while others are taking preventative measures to protect their homes and cars from the cold weather.
A spokesperson for the National Federation of Roofing Contractors urged homeowners to make sure their roofs are properly insulated to prevent heat loss, as well as ensuring that gutters and drains are clear of debris to prevent blockages. They also advised checking for any leaks or damage to the roof and having them repaired as soon as possible.
In addition to preparing homes for the cold weather, it is also important to prepare cars for wintery conditions. The Royal Automobile Club (RAC) recommends checking the condition of tyres, brakes, and lights, as well as making sure that the vehicle's battery is in good working order. They also advise keeping a supply of warm clothing, blankets, food, and water in the car in case of an emergency.
The cold weather may also have implications for the energy market, as demand for heating is likely to increase. However, energy experts have stated that the current energy supply is sufficient to meet demand, and that people should not worry about potential blackouts.
And don't forget that the cold weather sets in, it's crucial to look out for the wellbeing of our feathered friends. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) recommends providing extra food and water for wild birds during snowy conditions. "When the ground is frozen and covered in snow, birds struggle to find their natural food sources," says an RSPB spokesperson. "Birds require high-fat foods such as suet, sunflower seeds, and unsalted peanuts to provide the energy they need to survive the cold weather."
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