UK snow maps show blizzard spreading as 60mph gales are forecast

Forecasters say blizzards and snow are expected Thursday night into Friday across parts of Wales, the Midlands and northwest England, while gales up to 60mph are forecast; several weather warnings and high river levels have been reported.

Snow maps and forecasts indicate further snowfall across parts of the UK this week. Forecasters say blizzards may reach as far south as Monmouthshire and Gloucestershire on Thursday night into Friday morning. Temperatures have been relatively mild recently but are expected to drop later in the week, and strong gales are forecast in some coastal areas. Meteorological services and the Environment Agency have issued forecasts and noted elevated river levels in some locations. Key points: - Forecasters report blizzards and snow expected Thursday night into Friday across south Wales, the Midlands, Lancashire, Cumbria and parts of northeast England. - Gales of up to 60mph are forecast for Thursday evening, with stronger winds noted along Wales' west coast and the Lancashire coastline. - Several weather warnings and alerts are in place, and the Environment Agency reports high river levels at sites including the River Teme at Stanford Bridge and the River Severn at Severn Ham; flooding is feared in places. - Forecasters say further low pressure systems are expected to bring changeable conditions and possible heavy rain; the timing of the next official updates was not specified. Summary: The report notes that snowfall and strong winds will affect western and central areas, and some locations already have elevated river levels with flooding feared in places. Undetermined at this time.