A significant weather event is impacting the United Kingdom, with widespread flooding anticipated across over 70 locations. This is occurring concurrently with active snow and ice warnings affecting large portions of Scotland and England. The dual threat of frozen precipitation and deluge presents a complex and challenging situation for emergency services and the public.
Current Weather Conditions and Warnings
As of the most recent reports, a yellow weather warning for snow and ice is in effect, covering most of Scotland and substantial areas of England. This warning is expected to persist until 10 AM on Sunday.
Concurrently, the scale of potential flooding is considerable:
On Saturday night, there were 74 flood warnings in place, indicating that flooding is expected.
An additional 163 flood alerts were issued, signifying that flooding is possible.
These warnings suggest a broad geographical area is susceptible to disruption from both frozen and liquid precipitation.
Timeline of Weather Events
Throughout Saturday: A series of weather warnings expired. However, a new snow and ice warning was implemented, covering large swathes of the country.
Saturday night: The number of flood warnings and alerts reached their peak, with 74 flood warnings and 163 flood alerts active.
Sunday morning (until 10 AM): The snow and ice warning is expected to remain in effect for Scotland and large parts of England.
Early next week: The forecast indicates unsettled and blustery conditions with further showers nationwide.
Tuesday: These showers are expected to ease.
Wednesday: Another weather system is predicted to bring more unsettled conditions.
Thursday: This day is anticipated to be drier.
Areas Under Flood Warnings
Numerous specific locations have been identified as being at risk of flooding. Article 2 provides a detailed, albeit extensive, list. Key areas with flood warnings include:
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A361 East Lyng to Burrowbridge
Areas of Chertsey closest to the Chertsey Bourne
B1040 Thorney to Whittlesey Road to the South of the River Nene
Curry Moor and Hay Moor
Multiple groundwater flooding areas across Wiltshire, Dorset, and Hampshire (e.g., Avon Valley, Bere Stream, Ebble Valley, Tarrant Valley, Wylye Valley).
Various sections of the River Avon in Hampshire and Gloucestershire.
Sections of the River Severn in Gloucestershire and Worcestershire.
Sections of the River Soar in Leicestershire.
Sections of the River Thames in Oxfordshire and Berkshire.
Sections of the River Trent in Nottinghamshire.
Salt Moor and North Moor, including Moorland.
This extensive list highlights the pervasive nature of the flooding threat.
Expected Snow and Ice Accumulations
The Met Office has provided estimates for potential snow and ice accumulations:
Low levels: 1-3 cm of snow is possible.
Above 150m elevation: 3-7 cm of snow could accumulate.
Above 400m elevation: Up to 10-15 cm of snow is possible.
Read More: Snow and Ice Warnings for Greater Manchester
The combination of these snow accumulations with sub-zero temperatures could lead to hazardous icy conditions.
Broader Context and International Parallels
While this report focuses on the UK, similar weather phenomena have been observed internationally.
In the United States, a massive winter storm in late January 2026 was forecast to bring significant snow and ice, with some areas expected to receive over 12 inches of snow. Ice accumulations were noted as potentially more dangerous than snow.
In February 2025, the US East Coast faced flooding risks, while the Northeast experienced snow. Flash flooding was a concern in the Mississippi, Tennessee, and Ohio valleys. Kentucky's governor preemptively declared a state of emergency due to expected flash flooding. Extreme cold also affected the Midwest and Plains states.
These international examples illustrate the complex and dangerous interplay between winter storms and hydrological events, such as flooding.
Expert Insights and Observations
"Yellow weather warning for snow and ice is in force as flooding is expected in more than 70 areas across the country." - LBC News
"Snow that melts can quickly turn to ice." - CBS News, referencing US conditions.
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The duality of the threat – freezing conditions and excessive water – is a key element in understanding the current situation. The melting of snow can exacerbate flooding by adding to existing water levels or saturating the ground further.
Implications and Next Steps
The concurrent warnings for snow, ice, and widespread flooding indicate a period of significant weather disruption across the UK. Authorities have issued warnings, and the public is advised to stay informed about local conditions. The persistence of unsettled weather into the following week suggests a need for continued vigilance.
Public safety: The primary concern is public safety, given the risks associated with travel on icy roads and the potential for property damage due to flooding.
Infrastructure: Transportation networks and essential services may face disruption.
Preparedness: Residents in affected areas are advised to follow guidance from local authorities and emergency services.
Read More: Cold Air Brings Snow and Ice Warnings to the UK
The coming days will be critical in assessing the full impact of these combined weather threats.
Sources Used:
Express and Star: https://www.expressandstar.com/uk-news/2026/02/15/snow-and-ice-warning-in-force-as-flooding-expected-in-more-than-70-areas/ (Summary: Snow and ice warning active, over 70 areas expecting flooding. Forecast for next week shows continued unsettled weather.)
LBC: https://www.lbc.co.uk/article/flooding-expected-70-areas-snow-ice-warnings-5HjdSMb2/ (Summary: Details extensive list of 74 flood warnings and 163 flood alerts across England, alongside snow and ice warnings for Scotland and England. Mentions potential snow accumulations.)
CBS News: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/snow-storm-forecast-maps-winter-weather/ (Published Jan 26, 2026. Summary: Discusses US winter storm forecasts, highlighting danger of ice accumulation from melted snow.)
VOA News: https://www.voanews.com/a/us-east-faces-flooding-as-snow-forecast-for-northeast-cold-in-midwest-/7976695.html (Published Feb 15, 2025. Summary: Reports on US East Coast facing flooding, Northeast snow, and Midwest cold, with mentions of flash flooding and state of emergency declarations.)
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