Publish date: 2 April 2021

Author: Joanne Moore2

There is a 70 per cent probability of severe cold weather, icy conditions and heavy snow between midnight on Monday 5 April and midnight on Friday 9 April in parts of England. This weather could increase the health risks to vulnerable patients and disrupt the delivery of services.

An unseasonably cold, arctic air mass will become established across the country by Monday with strong northerly winds and frequent showers, especially near eastern and western coastal districts. These showers will fall as a mix of snow and hail for all, with some accumulations of snow likely on high ground. Additionally, the combination of strong winds and low temperatures will give a significant wind-chill effect. Widespread overnight frosts are expected, especially in the north and ice is likely where showers occur. During Wednesday and Thursday less cold air will likely make incursions into the UK with rain and some hill snow expected.

On receipt of a Met Office Level Two cold weather alert, staff need to ensure that they review and action the severe weather action card. Further information is also available on the severe weather planning page on StaffZone.