Key Points
- Harrow experienced its first snow of the season on the morning of Wednesday, 19 November, lasting about an hour and a half.
- Snowfall was uneven, with thicker patches in certain areas such as Wealdstone, Pinner, and Edgware.
- Residents shared photos and videos of the snow with Harrow Online, which were featured on their social media.
- The Met Office issued an Amber warning for snow in northern parts of the UK on Thursday and Yellow warnings for snow and ice across Northern Ireland, Wales, northern and southwest England, as well as much of Scotland.
- Met Office Chief Forecaster Neil Armstrong described the weather as influenced by cold Arctic air, marking the first notable cold snap of autumn.
- Snow and ice hazards are expected to persist over the next few days, particularly on Wednesday and Thursday.
- The Met Office warned about overnight ice risks and temperatures dropping well below average.
- Dr Ron Cook, NHS 24 Executive Medical Director, advised residents to dress warmly and take precautions during icy conditions, highlighting vulnerable groups like older adults, young children, and those with chronic health issues.
- Weather conditions are expected to warm up by the end of the week, with rain arriving from the west on Friday and unsettled weather forecast for the weekend.
What happened with the snow in Harrow on 19 November?
As reported by Harrow Online, Harrow witnessed its first snowfall of the season on Wednesday morning, 19 November. The snowfall began early and lasted for about an hour and a half. While the snow was light overall, some borough areas such as Wealdstone, Pinner, and Edgware saw thicker layers. Residents actively captured the moment and shared images and videos of the snow on Harrow Online’s social media platforms, showcasing a brief wintry scene across the borough.
How is the wider UK weather affected by this snowfall?
According to Harrow Online, the Met Office has issued an Amber warning for snow in northern sections of the UK, effective Thursday. Additional Yellow warnings for snow and ice cover Northern Ireland, Wales, parts of northern and southwest England, and many Scottish regions. Neil Armstrong, Chief Forecaster at the Met Office, explained the cause:
“Cold Arctic air from the north is firmly in charge of the UK’s weather, bringing the first notable cold snap of this autumn and giving an early taste of winter weather.”
Armstrong also cautioned that winter hazards, including snow and ice, will be significant over the following days, particularly midweek.
What has the Met Office forecasted regarding the snow and ice?
As detailed by Neil Armstrong to Harrow Online, while not every UK area will see snow settling on the ground, some regions—especially higher altitude areas—could receive several centimetres. The forecaster emphasised that ice remains a key concern during the nights this week due to anticipated temperatures dropping well below average. This creates hazardous travel and walking conditions.
What advice have health authorities given in response to the icy weather?
Dr Ron Cook, Executive Medical Director at NHS 24, offered guidance reported by Harrow Online to ensure public safety during the wintry spell. He urged everyone to “wrap up warmly and take extra care when outside,” especially since cold conditions pose greater risks to older people, young children, and individuals with long-term health conditions. Dr Cook suggested checking on neighbours and loved ones, wearing sturdy footwear, and allowing extra time for journeys to reduce the risk of slips and falls. He also warned that cold air can exacerbate breathing difficulties for people with asthma or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), advising them to keep medications accessible and limit outdoor exposure during cold spells.
How will the weather change after the snow?
The Met Office projected that conditions will warm by the week’s end, with rainfall expected to move in from the west on Friday. More unsettled weather may continue into the weekend, signalling a shift away from the cold snap experienced earlier in the week.
