Yellow Warning Issued for Yorkshire Coast as Snow and Ice Threaten Disruption

The Met Office has issued a Yellow warning for snow and ice on the Yorkshire Coast, cautioning that disruption is likely later this week.

The warning, which specifically affects areas including North Yorkshire and the East Riding of Yorkshire, is in place from 06:00 (UTC) on Wednesday 19 November 2025 until 18:00 (UTC) on Thursday 20 November 2025.

The national weather service has highlighted that "Snow showers may lead to disruption" during this period.

Details of Expected Weather

According to the Met Office, snow showers are anticipated to "feed inland from the North Sea through Wednesday and Thursday, giving significant accumulations in places".

Forecasters predict varying levels of snow accumulation depending on elevation:

• Where showers are most frequent, 2-5 cm will be possible at low levels.
• Hills above 100 metres elevation could see accumulations of 5-10 cm.
• The highest ground, above 300 metres, could potentially receive as much as 15-20 cm of snow.

The risk of ice is also substantial. The Met Office states that where showers persist, or where snow partially thaws and then refreezes overnight, this will "bring a risk of ice". Additional hazards associated with the wintry conditions include the possibility of "fairly strong gusts" and "some isolated lightning strikes" accompanying the showers.

Potential Disruption and Safety Concerns

The warning details several potential impacts across the affected areas. Travel is expected to be difficult, with the Met Office stating that there is a possibility of "travel delays on roads stranding some vehicles and passengers". Further disruption is anticipated for public transport, as "Bus and train services may be delayed or cancelled, with some road closures and longer journey times possible".

Furthermore, residents should prepare for localised impacts on infrastructure and personal safety:

• Untreated pavements and cycle paths "might be impassable".
• There is "a chance of injuries from slips and falls on icy surfaces".
• The Met Office warned that "Power cuts may occur and other services, such as mobile phone coverage, may be affected".
• In the most severe conditions, some rural communities "could become cut off".

Met Office Advice for Residents

The Met Office has provided comprehensive guidance to help people stay safe and prepare for the anticipated weather conditions.

For those driving, the Met Office recommends that the public should "plan your route, checking for delays and road closures, amending your travel plans if necessary". Drivers are advised to leave more time to prepare their cars before setting off and to ensure they have essentials packed, such as warm clothing, food, water, a blanket, and an ice scraper/de-icer, in the event of delays.

Regarding icy conditions, the public is urged to "Plan to leave the house at least five minutes earlier than normal to reduce your risk of accidents, slips, and falls". Pedestrians and cyclists should try to use main roads and pavements which are "more likely to have been treated".

The public is also encouraged to prepare for potential power cuts or being cut off from services, as "People cope better when they have prepared in advance". Preparation includes considering gathering torches, batteries, and a mobile phone power pack.

Finally, the Met Office stressed the importance of remaining vigilant, recommending that when a warning is issued, the public should "staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area," as warnings can change quickly.