The Met Office has warned the fresh produce industry of the risk of severe disruption as heavy snowfall is forecasted across many parts of the UK this weekend.
With a band of snow expected to push into the west this morning, the likes of Wales, the west of England and Northern Ireland are all at risk of blizzard-like conditions with strong winds predicted.
The Met Office have issued a red warning for several parts of south Wales where accumulations of 10 to 15cm of snow are expected and up to 30cm over the hills, while an amber warning has been issued for Northern Ireland and sections of western England, as well as the Midlands and central and southern England.
A red warning from the Met Office means the public must take action to keep safe from the impact of the weather and that widespread disruption to travel and other services is expected.
However, while snow will fall over most areas of the UK, the far west, including the likes of Cornwall, and southwest England is expected to see the snow quickly turn into rain.
'The snow is expected to be heaviest during Friday morning across Wales and the southern half of England,' said Andy Page, Met Office Chief Forecaster.
He added: 'Clearly there is the potential for significant disruption to peoples plans. We should follow the advice of the emergency services and local authorities to help keep ourselves, our families and our communities safe in light of the forecast.'
Meanwhile, the Freight Transport Association (FTA) has warned its members to watch the weather and plan journeys accordingly.
Malcolm Bingham, FTA head of road network management policy said: “Working with the Met office and the Highways Agency FTA’s traffic service has been warning our members of the approaching snow.
'This morning has seen a number of lorry related snow incidents in the South West and South Wales and all motorists need to be aware of the developing snow falls as this weather system passes over the country.'
