Fresh Warning Of Heavy Snow Across UK
12:34am UK, Tuesday December 29, 2009
A fresh blast of snow is expected in many parts of Britain later, bringing with it another spell of travel disruptions.
A return of the pre-Christmas snow is anticipated
Up to a foot of snow is predicted on higher ground in parts of Wales, with lighter but still significant falls in areas of central England.
Drivers are being urged to take extra care on the roads, with many people heading back to work after Christmas.
Paul Knightley, a forecaster with MeteoGroup, said: "Across higher ground in central and south Wales, we can expect to see heavy snow - 20 to 30cm, or up to a foot, by Tuesday lunchtime, with strong winds pushing it higher in drifts.
"Tuesday is going to be a nasty day across much of Wales.
"We can also expect to see falls of 5 to 10cm (2-4ins) in parts of the Midlands. We are not sure how far north or how far south this snow could fall.
"Southern counties may have some snow on Tuesday morning, but not enough to settle."
The Welsh Assembly Government said contingency plans were in place to keep main roads open in extreme weather.
Passengers due to fly from Cardiff Airport have been advised to check flight schedules before arriving.
Steve Hodgetts, the airport's business development director, said: "The plans (for snow) are already in place and have already been in operation earlier this month.
"Whether or not there are any delays depends on how severe the snow is."
The forecast follows a spell of snow, sleet and ice which has gripped the UK for more than a week before relenting in most parts over recent days.
Forecasters have already warned of freezing weather for the New Year.
Temperatures are expected to plunge to -3C in most of England and Wales on Thursday night (New Year's Eve) and -8C in Scotland, with widespread snow showers also predicted.
New Year's Day will also be chilly, with the northern half of Britain struggling to get above freezing during the day, while London will do well to reach 4C.
