Wind and snow warning issued for Falkirk with 'blizzard conditions' possible

A warning for wind and snow has been issued for Falkirk with blizzard conditions likely.

The Yellow 'be aware' alert comes into force from 1pm on Wednesday February 23rd and lasts until 3pm on Thursday February 24th.

Forecasters say that heavy snow showers will be blown in off the Atlantic and through the Central Belt, with as much as 10cm possible at low levels.

Higher routes could see up to 30cm by Thursday morning and winds will also be very string with gusts of 70mph.

Wind and snow warning area (Met Office)

A Met Office spokesperson said: "Temperatures across Scotland and Northern Ireland are expected to drop sharply following a squally band of rain on Wednesday, with frequent heavy and blustery snow showers arriving from the Atlantic.

"Away from immediate west-facing coasts, 2-5cm, and in places 7-10 cm of snow is likely to build up even at low levels, whereas on higher ground some places could see 20-30cm building up by Thursday morning.

The showers will be accompanied by strong, blustery winds, with gusts of 50-60mph possible, and a small chance of 70mph on coasts.

"Blizzard conditions are likely over higher ground. There is a very§ small chance that some of the showers could be accompanied by frequent lightning, which may could impact power supplies.

"Snow showers are increasingly likely to turn back to rain and sleet at low levels later Thursday morning and early afternoon, although remaining as snow above 200-300m."

What to expect

• There is a small chance of injuries and danger to life from flying debris
• There is a slight chance of some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs
• There is a small chance of longer journey times or cancellations as road, rail, air and ferry services are affected. There is also a chance some vehicles and passengers could become stranded.
• There is a slight chance that power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage
• There is a small chance that some roads and bridges could close
• There is a slight chance that some rural communities could become cut off