Severe weather in the UK has completely disrupted transport systems with many cancellations of trains, buses and flights. And forecasters have warned that more heavy snow is set to hit the British shores as the UK endures its coldest winter for 13 years.
Met office forecasters have issued warnings that snowstorms from Russia, brewing over the north sea, will bring even more freezing temperatures, biting winds and snow. While the weather may improve for a while, forecasters are warning that more heavy snow can be expected this week.
The Automobile Association have warned people telling them that their cars should not be thought of as an overcoat. If they break down or if the road ahead is blocked they will need to leave their vehicles and must ensure that they are adequately protected against the cold, else they will risk hypothermia.
London and the Southeast region of England has experienced the heaviest snow falls for around 20 years. London mayor, Boris Johnson, was forced to shut down the whole of the London bus network due to the effects of the severe winter weather. Disruption to public transport has led many people to work at home and numerous schools are still closed.
The worst snowstorm to hit London for 20 years has resulted in the cancellation of hundreds of flights from Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted and Luton. The closure of one of Heathrow airport’s busy runways has led to more than 650 flight cancellations. The outlook for travellers this week continues to look uncertain as forecasters predict even more severe weather.
The cancellation of many trains and buses is leading many to attempt to get to the airports by car. The icy road conditions are making driving treacherous, particularly on untreated local roads and hills. There are many abandoned cars, buses and trucks on the roads, some blocking carriageways.
Anyone who is expecting to fly from Heathrow or Gatwick is advised to contact the airport before setting off. And if you are planning to take your car to the airport be sure to pre-book your Heathrow parking or Gatwick parking space in advance to be certain of a place.
The current advice is: ‘if your journey isn’t vital, stay at home’.