VIDEO: Temperatures across the Isle of Wight are to plummet this weekend with snow flurries expected throughout next week, accompanied by the potential for some heavier, more disruptive snowfall by Friday.
According to the Isle of Wight Meteorological Service – a trusted source for local weather forecasting – the thermometer will struggle to rise above 2C on Monday and Tuesday, dropping to a high of just 0C later in the week. At night, the mercury will fall to a rather chilly -3C across much of the Island.
It’s not just the actual temperature that is of concern though… the extremely bitter wind chill will bring the feel like temperature down to -13c at times, making for uncomfortable conditions. It is set to be the coldest spell of weather experienced for several years.
There is the potential for snow on the Isle of Wight on Monday and Tuesday with the south side of the Island expected to see the most snowfall. Icy conditions on roads and pavements will follow as the week progresses before a bout of potentially heavy snow covers the Isle of Wight on Thursday and Friday. However, Jamie Russell of IW Met Service says it could still go either way.
From a Met Office perspective, forecasters have issued a Level 3 cold weather alert and say there is a 99% probability of severe cold weather, icy conditions and possibly heavy snow between now and 08:00 on Thursday (1st March).
Islanders are being advised to stock up on bread, milk and other basic foods as part of the Isle of Wight NHS Trust’s cold weather advice. A video featuring Sister Charlotte from St Mary’s Hospital’s Stroke Unit has been produced and contains a list of simple steps to take to ensure you stay well and stay alive…
Jessie Gulati, Matron in the Medical Assessment Unit (MAU) at St Mary’s Hospital has said:
“With cold snaps we know that there will be an increase in admissions which will put the hospital under pressure.
“Cold weather exacerbates respiratory conditions. Those with long term conditions need to be very careful. Stay warm, stay active. Make sure that you stay indoors unless you really do need to go out. Even then see if someone else can do a bit of shopping for you or take the dog for a walk.
“If you’ve got elderly neighbours pop round for a cup of tea and a chat. A cake or biscuit with the tea never fails to cheer people up.”
Top tips to prepare for colder weather:
- Look out for friends and family who may be vulnerable to the cold and ensure they have access to warm food and drinks and are managing to heat their homes adequately
- Try to maintain indoor temperatures to at least 18C, particularly if you are not mobile, have long term illness or are 65 or over
- Take weather into account when planning your activity over the following days
- If eligible seek entitlements and benefits such as Winter Fuel Payments and Cold Weather Payments, which are available to some
- If you meet the criteria register for priority service with your energy and water suppliers
- Avoid exposing yourself to cold or icy outdoor conditions if you are at a higher risk of cold related illness or falls
- Discuss with friends and neighbours about clearing snow and ice from in front of your house and public walkways nearby
