Drivers in certain regions have received a cautionary advisory to exercise “extreme caution” following the overnight snowfall preceding the Easter bank holiday weekend.
Snow has accumulated in parts of Devon and Wales overnight, with the upcoming weather expected to be cold and drizzly over the next few days.
The RAC reports that 14 million individuals are anticipated to travel on the roads during this weekend, potentially doubling the usual travel duration on popular routes.
This morning, residents woke up to snowy vistas after snowfall during the night in the rural village of Pontrhydfendigaid in mid-Wales.
The Devon County Council issued a warning to drivers, emphasizing the need to drive cautiously, particularly avoiding high roads and opting for main routes where feasible, as their crews have been diligently working to maintain passable roads throughout the night.
Moreover, a yellow wind warning is currently in effect for certain areas of Devon and southern England.
Inspector Dave Thubron from Devon and Cornwall Police noted on Wednesday night that the snow had led to challenging travel conditions at higher altitudes.
Snowfall was reported in various areas of Devon, including Plymouth, Ivybridge, and Dartmoor.
Simultaneously in Wales, images depicted snow settling on the ground in sections of Swansea, Gwynedd, and notably the A465 route.
The Met Office’s forecast for Wales on Thursday anticipates additional snowfall and heavy rainfall.
The forecast states, “Heavy rain and potentially some snow in the northeast gradually clearing, otherwise briefly fair. Further instances of showery rain emerging from the south, occasionally intense with thunder and hail.”
Motorists are likely to encounter travel disruptions nationwide this weekend as numerous individuals embark on their Easter vacations.
“With Easter occurring earlier than usual at the onset of the school holidays, holidaymakers might face significant traffic congestion,” remarked an RAC breakdown spokesperson.
Travel times on the M25 between the M23 near Gatwick and the M1 in Hertfordshire are projected to exceed two hours, while congestion is also expected on the southbound M5 stretch between Bristol and Taunton.
Rail passengers are advised to expect substantial service disruptions, with Network Rail urging travelers to verify their journey particulars before setting out.
London Euston will largely be closed between Good Friday and Easter Monday due to ongoing engineering works between London and Milton Keynes.
Meteorologists have cautioned that heavy rain and strong winds could exacerbate the travel chaos.
Hopes for a dry, sunlit Easter bank holiday have been thwarted, with forecasts indicating scattered rain across the country from Friday to Monday.
Showers are predicted for Good Friday, persisting through Saturday and Easter Sunday.
Deputy Chief Meteorologist Helen Caughey from the Met Office stated, “Showers will linger over the weekend, particularly in southern and western regions. However, most areas are likely to witness improved conditions, with showers becoming less frequent and increased chances of extended periods of sunshine, especially in eastern and northern areas. The weather is expected to become less blustery, and temperatures are set to rise, providing a relatively warm feel in sunny spells. More unsettled conditions are anticipated to return by Easter Monday.”