Households across England have been urged to open their bathroom cabinet doors before Friday as a blast of Arctic air is set to sweep across the country. The Met Office has warned that temperatures will drop “well below average” as the colder weather takes hold on January 2.
Chief meteorologist Jason Kelly said the UK could expect snow showers and a risk of widespread ice. He warned: “We’re entering a much colder period with Arctic air sinking south to cover the whole country by Friday. Temperatures will fall well below average, with snow showers and snow accumulations likely, particularly in northern and some central areas. There is also a risk of widespread ice.”
Mr Kelly also warned that temperatures could drop into minus double figures overnight, with daytime temperatures in many areas failing to rise above 0C through Saturday and Sunday.
Households have been urged to follow advice to stay safe during the weather event as part of the Met Office‘s latest weather warnings. Yellow weather warnings for ice and snow have been issued by the Met Office for parts of England on Friday. Some travel disruption is expected due to snow and ice in southern England and the Midlands – as well as Wales, Northern Ireland, north Scotland. At the weekend, the yellow warning will only cover north Scotland.
The Met Office has released five tips for those who may be cut off due to snow. One recommendation may seem unusual: keeping bathroom cabinet doors open.
The agency explained that opening both bathroom and kitchen cabinet doors will allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing, preventing frozen pipes in the bitter temperatures.
Households could be placed in a dangerous situation if the pipes freeze while they are cut off, because emergency plumbers may be unable to reach the home, and it won’t be possible to deliver temporary heaters. NHS guidance suggests frequently used areas, such as lounges or bedrooms, should be kept to at least 18C.
To keep households warm during snowfall, households were also advised to keep the thermostat set to the same temperature, both during the day and at night.
The meteorologist added: “Wintry hazards will continue, with more severe weather warnings possible. It looks like this cold spell could last well into next week, so it is important people keep up to date with the latest forecast and warnings and plan ahead.”
The weather agency also advised that households could gather essentials, such as food, torches, blankets and warm clothing, to prepare for the possibility of being cut off from amenities due to snow.