We’ve already seen ‘The Beast from the East’ coming in from Siberia in Russia affecting Scotland and northern England.
Now it’s the turn of Storm Emma, another snow storm that will reach Gloucestershire this afternoon.
Portugal and Spain are already affected and heavy snow has fallen across northwestern France.
The Met Office has issued red warnings of heavy snow and icy conditions. But what is the background to Storm Emma? How do snow storms form?
Rising moist air within low pressure areas and circulating winds can develop stronger storms. Blizzard conditions and the amount of snowfall depends on
- How fast warm air rises over cold air
- How much water vapour is available to form rain
- How fast the storm is moving. Slower movement causes more snow
Do not make unnecessary journeys in the red warning area. Even if you are in the Amber or Yellow areas, consider if your journey is necessary, and take provisions in case you get stranded. Take care and stay #weatheraware #StormEmma #RedWarning pic.twitter.com/rwqLlgemru
— Met Office (@metoffice) March 1, 2018
Storm Emma is similar to ‘The Beast from the East’. What we’re seeing here is a ‘double header’ of snow storms hitting different parts of the UK. Cold air across the UK means there could also be freezing rain. Gloucestershire could be braced for six inches of snow, which could last through the weekend.
If you want to know about road closures today please check @HighwaysSWEST, @GlosRoads and @GlosPolice_FCR. If you must travel today and tomorrow please take suitable shoes and clothes, a fully charged phone, food, drink and a blanket. pic.twitter.com/ZlH62GxOPJ
— Glos Police (@Glos_Police) March 1, 2018
