Snow warning issued for Cumbria

About three to six centimetres of snow was expected quite widely, with the possibility of more than 10cm on higher ground.

Amber warnings are in place for Orkney and Shetland, Dumfries, Galloway, Midlothian and the Borders.

The warning, issued at 9.39am, states: “This seems likely to happen during Wednesday evening across southern areas of Scotland, perhaps including parts of the central belt”.

Motorists are urged to exercise caution on the roads whether walking or driving.

The Met Office has issued a snow warning as wintry showers start to blow in from the East.

The weather is expected to extend to northern England during Wednesday night and clear on Thursday morning. While amounts of snow remain uncertain, especially on lowest ground, some travel disruption is expected, while the risk of accretion on power lines and communication masts will be increased by the strong winds. Highs 3-6C with moderate south to southwest breezes.

Scotland’s t ransport minister Derek Mackay said the public should check their travel operator’s website before they leave and be mindful of the conditions.

Ms Sharples said the forecast conditions were fairly typical for a cold spell, but stood in contrast with the record warm weather seen in December, when there was virtually no frost across the UK. There is plenty of salt available and the winter control rooms are monitoring conditions 24/7 to ensure that the fleet is treating and patrolling where required.

A less-than-effective flu jab and cold weather were said to be major factors.

“Cold air can have a severe impact on people with asthma”.