Snowy, wintery, conditions hit the UK

THE bank holiday weekend is almost upon us but back in the UK, this May Day celebration will see thundery downpours, sleet and hail sweeping across Britain. Roads are set to be blocked and miserable as thousands are set to get away for the long weekend.   

Although British summertime started a few weeks back, the weather shows no signs of the fresh and sunny spring days associated with the time of year. Instead snow, blustery, icy wind and thunder have put a stop to any hope of outdoor pursuits this weekend. 

Motorists have been warned to take care whilst travelling after the roads have already seen a number of weather related accidents. 

Flights from Leeds Bradford airport were cancelled as six inches of snow fell overnight whilst there are predictions of eight inches of snow in areas of higher ground and four in low lying areas in parts of northern England and Scotland. 

The band of cold, freezing weather is due to move south throughout the day with thundery downpours and a bitterly wind. 

Helen Roberts of the Met Office said: “The remnants of system that is bringing snow across southern Scotland and England will be lingering into Friday evening, predominantly in the North East of England.

“Mostly it will be rain showers and a wintry mix of snow, sleet and hail for the rest of the country.”

Hail was expected ‘just about anywhere’. Saturday will see a brief respite with a spell of ‘typical April weather’, and mild weather heading up to 14 degrees in the south and 9C in the north. 

But on Sunday another band of wild, stormy weather will move in from the northwest of the country and that will continue into Monday. 

RAC has warned motorists to take care when driving in these conditions. 

One spokesman said: “Motorists will be contending with a seasonal but tricky combination of sun, wind, rain and ice. Get prepared for a few jams by making sure you have enough food and drink packed for your passengers.”