The Met Office has issued an ice warning for London after a night of snowfall and freezing temperatures. Parts of South London woke up to a covering of light snow this morning as wintry conditions moved east across southern England.
As a result, Londoners commuting to work this morning (Thursday, January 9) have been warned of icy conditions which could affect their journeys. A Met Office alert reads: “Surfaces have been left wet and cold following Wednesday evening’s rain and snow.
“While some surfaces may dry out before they freeze, it is likely that many untreated surfaces may become icy and hazardous overnight into Thursday morning – this will tend to happen sooner in the west, some eastern areas perhaps marginal for freezing.
An amber cold-health alert from the UK Health Security Agency remains in place for London until Sunday as more freezing temperatures are expected this week. The UKSA says the harsh conditions could significantly impact healthcare services, and lead to an increase in deaths for people aged over 65.
Cold conditions will continue to impact the city throughout this as temperatures drop to -2C tonight. According to Met Office forecasts it should last until Tuesday when the mercury increases to 9C.
Five-day forecast for London
Today:
Cold and frosty start with icy patches possible on untreated surfaces. Any overnight cloud clearing southeast through the morning, with a fine and largely sunny day following. Staying rather cold. Maximum temperature 4 °C.
Tonight:
Another very cold night, with a widespread frost. Some higher cloud will gradually move into western parts however, with temperatures recovering a little. Perhaps a few freezing fog patches elsewhere. Minimum temperature -6 °C.
Friday:
Cloud will continue spreading eastwards, with light rain possible in the far west, perhaps wintry over hills. Early fog patches gradually clearing, with some hazy sunshine in the east. Cold. Maximum temperature 4 °C.
Outlook for Saturday to Monday:
Cold and dry Saturday, with widespread frost and temperatures around or just above freezing by day. Freezing fog patches possible. Temperatures gradually recovering Sunday and Monday, but otherwise little change.
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