Manchester weather: TfGM issues warning as sub-zero temperatures expected across Greater Manchester

Temperatures are expected to drop below zero in Greater Manchester over the next few days, with the chance of snow in some parts of the UK, according to the Met Office. 

The forecast for the rest of this week shows subzero lows, reaching -4 degrees Thursday night into Friday morning. The maximum temperatures for this week will range between 2-4 degrees. 

Mancunians can also expect some foggy and frosty mornings, but skies will clear with sunny spells forecast for today, Thursday (30 November) and Friday (1 December). 

Will this affect transport?

Transport for Greater Manchester have issued a warning about the travel risks associated with cold temperatures, such as icy roads. 

Lucy Kennon, TfGM’s Head of Resilience and Business Continuity, said: “The next few days will see extremely cold weather across our region, which brings with it several risks. 

“For transport that could mean dangerous driving conditions, with colder weather increasing the risk of an accident or breakdown – and there are a few simple steps you can take to help keep yourself and others safe, such as driving to the conditions, checking your tyres, having a fully charged mobile phone with you and blankets in your car. 

“For those cyclists undeterred by the cold, please also watch out for icy conditions, plan your route and allow extra time. We’ll also be doing what we can, alongside operators, to help keep public transport running, including gritting our facilities and running trams throughout the night to keep the overhead lines free from ice.”

Will there be snow? 

The only areas of the UK that have yellow weather warnings in place for snow and ice are the North East and some parts of Scotland and Ireland. 

However, the Met Office forecast for the North West does warn that hilly areas could expect some wintry flurries over the next few days. The weekend forecast says: “As we head towards the weekend there is plenty of fine weather though remaining chilly with sharp frosts. Still a chance of hill snow and some overnight fog in places.”

What does the Met Office say?

Met Office Chief Meteorologist, Neil Armstrong, said: “There has been some uncertainty in the atmospheric weather patterns for the coming days, however, confidence in the forecast is improving and there is a reducing chance of snow for southern areas of the UK, although there is still a chance we may see some sleety wintry showers over higher ground in areas such as Dartmoor or Exmoor.

“Northern and northeastern areas of the UK in the moist north / northeasterly airflow continue to see a chance of snow or sleet and yellow snow and ice National Severe Weather Warnings have been issued.”