Snow forecast for parts of UK as yellow rain warning issued in Sussex and Surrey
A yellow weather warning for heavy rain has been issued for Sussex and Surrey, with forecasters warning of possible flooding and travel disruption.
The alert, issued by the Met Office, came into force at 6am on Wednesday (February 18) and runs until 8am on Thursday.
It covers large parts of southern England, including East Sussex, West Sussex and Surrey.
Spells of heavy rain are expected to move across the region during Wednesday and continue overnight into Thursday. Between 10mm and 20mm of rain is forecast ‘quite widely’, with higher totals possible nearer the south coast.
Forecasters say the rain will be accompanied by strong east to northeasterly winds, which could worsen impacts in some areas. Snow is also possible over higher ground on Wednesday night.
The Met Office warning reads: “Spells of heavy rain could lead to some flooding and disruption to travel during Wednesday and Thursday.
"[Residents should expect) spray and flooding on roads probably making journey times longer.
"Bus and train services probably affected with journey times taking longer.
"Flooding of a few homes and businesses is possible.
"Some interruption to power supplies and other services possible.”
People in Sussex and Surrey are advised to ‘check if your property could be at risk of flooding’.
"If so, consider preparing a flood plan and an emergency flood kit,” the Met Office added.
"Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary.
"People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance. It’s easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items.
"Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly: when a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area.”
The yellow snow alert is for Derbyshire; Cheshire East; Greater Manchester; Gloucestershire; Wales; Herefordshire; Shropshire; Staffordshire; Stoke-on-Trent; Telford and Wrekin; Warwickshire; West Midlands Conurbation; Worcestershire; South Yorkshire and West Yorkshire.
The Met Office warned that strong east to northeasterly winds will accompany the rain and/or snow, which ‘could exacerbate impacts in places’. Large waves could affect some east-facing coasts, especially along the English Channel.
Meanwhile, a sharp drop in temperatures has prompted the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) to issue a cold weather alert for most of England. The alert is in place for all regions of England, except the South East and London, until 6pm on Friday (February 20).
RoSPA urges drivers to take extra care
With yellow snow and rain warnings in place, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) urges drivers to exercise caution on slippery roads.
In 2024, 47 people were killed, 734 were seriously injured, and 2,204 were slightly injured in reported road collisions on UK roads where the road surface was slippery due to weather conditions, according to statistics cited by RoSPA.
The organisation is calling on the public to be vigilant.
“With yellow warnings now active for rain and snow in Northern Ireland and southern England – and further alerts for snow and ice expected to affect Wales, the Midlands and the southern Pennines later today – conditions are likely to become increasingly hazardous,” RoSPA said.
The RoSPA advises motorists to plan journeys carefully, check vehicles before setting off, clear all snow from windscreens, thoroughly de-ice their vehicle, and adapt driving styles to suit conditions.
The organisation added: “Key steps include reducing speed, increasing braking distances, and carrying emergency supplies such as warm clothing and a charged mobile phone.”
Highlighting the risks, RoSPA noted: “Winter weather can create a range of risks, with braking distances up to ten times longer on icy roads. Snow, fog, and flooding add further hazards, making road conditions challenging.”
The organisation also provided detailed safety advice for drivers:
“Avoid unnecessary journeys: If conditions are extreme, consider delaying travel or working remotely where possible.”
“Prepare your vehicle: Check lights, brakes, tyres, battery, and fluid levels. Stock up on de-icer, screen wash, and anti-freeze. Ensure that before setting off, you have thoroughly de-iced your vehicle and cleared any snow.”
“Carry an emergency kit: Include a shovel, tow rope, warm clothing, blankets, food, water, and a fully charged mobile phone.”
“Plan ahead: Monitor weather and travel updates, keep your fuel tank topped up, and let someone know your route and expected arrival time.”
“Allow extra time for your journey: Challenging conditions require slower speeds and greater care. Leave extra time for your journey and for preparing your vehicle safely before leaving.”
“Adapt your driving: Reduce speed and increase the distance between vehicles in front of you –braking distances can be up to 10 times longer on icy roads. Avoid sudden braking or acceleration and steer gently. Use dipped headlights in poor visibility and keep windows clear.”
RoSPA also issued specific guidance for snow, ice, floods, fog, strong winds, and low sun. Drivers are warned: “If you become stranded: Stay with your vehicle and call for assistance rather than attempting to walk in severe conditions.”
Rebecca Guy, senior policy manager at the RoSPA, said the prospect of many people commuting in rain or snow means it is ‘vital to plan ahead and drive cautiously’.
He added: “Winter weather demands extra care. By preparing your vehicle and adjusting your driving style, you can help keep yourself and others safe."