05/01/2010

UK Cold Snap Continues

Persistent snow showers and freezing conditions are continuing to cause travel chaos across most of the UK.

Last night the Met Office issued multiple severe weather warning, which subsequently saw temperatures plummet to -15C in parts of Scotland.

Schools across Britain have shut with major transport links in English cities ground to a halt.

Delays have affected passengers at Leeds/Bradford, Liverpool and Manchester airports.

Accidents and traffic jams on road networks such as the M1, M5, M6 and M42 in the Midlands have caused hour-long tailbacks.

Most train operators have also reported delays and general disruption to normal services.

Overnight snow fell in Scotland, and northern regions of Wales and England, while showers are expected to move to more southern parts later today.

Concerns have been raised over National Grid gas supplies with average seasonal usage growing by 30%.

Average temperatures in the UK have dropped to -5C, despite some remote areas experiencing a much deeper freeze.

The AA said yesterday presented its busiest day on record, with over 25,000 call-outs during a 24-hour period.

Current Met Office severe weather warnings remain in place until noon today.

(PR/BMcC)

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