ALERT: Yellow weather warning issued for Exeter as temperatures drop below freezing

A yellow weather warning for ice and snow has been issued for Exeter, with the Met Office warning of potentially hazardous conditions from Tuesday 6 January through to Wednesday 7 January.

The warning highlights a risk of icy patches forming on untreated roads, pavements and cycle paths, particularly overnight and during the early morning. 

While widespread heavy snow is not expected in Exeter city centre, there is a chance of occasional sleet or light snow, especially during colder periods.

According to the Met Office forecast, Tuesday is expected to start cold and icy, with sunny spells and a few wintry showers in western areas. 

Cloud is forecast to increase during the afternoon, with rain and stronger winds reaching Cornwall by the evening. 

Temperatures in Exeter are expected to reach a maximum of around 8°C.

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During Tuesday night, a band of rain is expected to move eastwards, potentially falling as snow over higher ground such as Dartmoor and the surrounding moors. 

As skies clear later in the night, temperatures could fall to around -2°C, leading to icy stretches developing on untreated surfaces.

Wednesday is expected to remain cold and rather cloudy, with a scattering of wintry showers still possible. 

Rain is forecast to return later in the day across Cornwall and west Devon, accompanied by gusty winds. Maximum temperatures are expected to reach around 9°C.

The Met Office has warned that icy conditions overnight Tuesday into Wednesday morning could lead to minor disruption, including an increased risk of slips and falls. 

Untreated residential streets, rural roads and pavements are most likely to be affected.

Higher ground and exposed routes around Exeter are expected to see the worst conditions, including areas such as the Haldon Hills and routes approaching Dartmoor. 

Patchy ice may also form on damp surfaces in suburban and rural areas.

The yellow warning has been issued due to a medium likelihood of icy conditions but a low overall impact, according to the Met Office’s impact matrix.

Residents are being advised to take extra care when travelling. The Met Office recommends allowing additional time for journeys, wearing suitable footwear on icy pavements and sticking to main roads and pavements where surfaces are more likely to have been treated.

Drivers are advised to check road conditions before setting out, while those using public transport should keep an eye on bus and train updates in case of delays. 

Cyclists are encouraged to avoid untreated routes where possible.

People are also being reminded to stay up to date with the latest weather forecasts, as warnings may change, and to consider checking on vulnerable neighbours who may be affected by the cold conditions.

Looking ahead, the Met Office says Thursday is most likely to start dry before an increasing risk of heavy rain and strong winds later in the week. 

Conditions are expected to become more unsettled into Friday, with sunshine and showers forecast for Saturday.