Snowstorm warning sees 13 English cities brace for energy cuts

On Nov 18, 2024

A whopping 11 major English cities are on high alert for power cuts as a 15-hour snowstorm is set to wreak havoc from Monday. The Met Office has slapped a yellow weather warning for ice and snow, kicking off at 7pm on Monday and not letting up until 10am on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, Scots are already bracing for the white stuff with warnings in place from 4pm today, Sunday November 17. Up to 13 key English cities including Manchester, Liverpool, and Newcastle could be plunged into darkness, with travel chaos and power supply issues on the cards.

Other spots like Bangor in North Wales and Carlisle are also in the firing line of this icy onslaught. The Met Office has dished out advice to those in the danger zone: “People cope better when they have prepared in advance for the risk of power cuts or being cut off from services and amenities due to the snow. It’s easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items.”

“Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly: when a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area.

“The most likely scenario is for most of the snow to accumulate on hills, with 5 to 10 cm possible above 200 metres and perhaps as much as 15 to 20 cm above 300 metres. There is a small chance of snow settling at lower levels, where 5 to 10 cm would prove much more disruptive, but this remains very uncertain.

“As rain, sleet and snow clear on Tuesday morning, ice may form on untreated surfaces.”

Brits bracing for power outages are advised to purchase flashlights and candles, along with batteries, and to charge their phones and portable chargers to be well-prepared, reports the Express.

Additionally, insulate pipes to prevent freezing and seal any drafts inside the house. Open curtains during the day when it’s light and close them again when darkness falls.