Storm Bert to Bring Heavy Rain, Snow, and Travel Disruption Across the UK

A deep area of low pressure, named Storm Bert, is set to hit the UK this weekend, bringing significant impacts including heavy rain, snow, and strong winds. The storm is expected to arrive on Saturday, with several National Severe Weather Warnings issued for both Saturday and Sunday.

Severe Weather Warnings in Place

Ahead of Storm Bert, wintry showers are continuing to affect parts of the UK on Thursday and Friday, especially in northern regions. These conditions have prompted snow and ice warnings to remain active.

Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Dan Holley explained the nature of the approaching storm:

“Storm Bert marks a shift to much milder air and wintry hazards will gradually diminish through the weekend, but heavy snowfall is expected across parts of northern England and Scotland for a time on Saturday, especially over higher ground, and warnings are in place.”

Dan also highlighted the potential for heavy rain over the weekend:

“Heavy rain through Saturday and Sunday, especially in southern and western parts of the UK, will also bring impacts for some with a number of warnings in place. We expect 50-75 mm of rainfall quite widely within the warning areas, but in excess of 100 mm is possible over high ground in parts of Wales and southwest England.”

He added that rapid snowmelt combined with strong winds could lead to flooding and travel disruption.

Cold Weather Alerts Issued

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued amber and yellow Cold Health Alerts across England. These alerts are designed to assist health and social care professionals, as well as others involved in mitigating the health impacts of cold weather.

For those wishing to stay updated, the UKHSA offers email alerts, which can be subscribed to via their website.

Advice for Motorists

RAC Breakdown spokesperson Alice Simpson has urged drivers to prepare for some of the most challenging road conditions of the year. With freezing temperatures and snow showers affecting large parts of the UK, motorists should take extra precautions:

“Drivers should ensure their tyres have plenty of tread and are inflated to the correct pressure to give them the best possible grip on the road. It’s best to stick to major roads, rather than rural areas where surfaces may not be gritted, reduce speeds and leave plenty of space behind the vehicle in front to ensure you have more time to stop.”

Alice also advised drivers to carry essentials such as blankets, warm clothing, and a mobile power bank in case of breakdowns.

Unsettled Weather to Continue

While the weekend is set to bring Storm Bert’s impacts, unsettled weather is likely to persist into next week. Strong winds and showers are expected across many parts of the UK, with temperatures near average but feeling colder due to wind chill.

Further ahead, there are indications of a brief return to colder conditions with wintry showers in northern areas before milder weather returns later in the week.

The storm naming process is part of a collaboration between the UK, Ireland, and the Netherlands, under the western storm naming group. This ensures consistency in naming significant weather systems across the region.

Stay safe and prepare for the impacts of Storm Bert this weekend.