Storm Rachel grips the UK bringing severe weather warnings

Severe warnings for Scotland and snow, ice, rain, and gales forecast for the rest of the country as Storm Rachel hits.

13:15 14 January 2015

The Met Office has issued severe weather warnings in some parts of the UK as snow and gales are forecasted to sweep the country.

An amber warning, which means “be prepared” was issued for central and southern Scotland on Wednesday. As for the rest of the county, adverse weather conditions are to be expected from Wednesday onwards.

However, the most severe warnings cover Strathclyde, Central, Tayside, Fife, South West Scotland, and Lothian and Borders whereby “disruptive snowfall” is expected.

Meanwhile, Birmingham has already reported heavy snow while 24 homes in Pembrokeshire were damaged due to a mini tornado. Two people where taken to the hospital with shock.

"The public should be prepared for the risk of disruption and difficult driving conditions," the Met Office said.

"A lower risk exists across south-east England early on Wednesday morning,” the Met Office added. “Icy stretches will also form on untreated surfaces."

Meanwhile, Police Scotland has advised drivers to stay home unless the journey is really necessary.

West Midlands Ambulance Service wrote on Twitter: "Our crews are reporting snow in West Mercia, Birmingham, the Black Country and parts of Staffs and Warwickshire. A few reports of cars slipping and at least one jack knifed lorry. No injuries so far thankfully.”