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On Monday February 2nd 2009 the South East of England was hit by snow. I know this
is not unusual in many parts of the world, but it was interesting to watch the whole
region grind to a virtual standstill. At the time of writing this article the major
London airports of Heathrow, Gatwick and London City were all closed. Stansted
airport had been closed but has just had one runway reopened. Travel chaos has
ensued, the M25 is closed in many places and many schools throughout the country
have been closed.
School closures
The dramatic change in the weather has meant that a number of areas are
experiencing transport problems. This means that many schools across the country
have been closed
County Closed
This table shows the number of schools
South East
reported closed. It is interesting to note that
The United States government offered lots of advice about preparing for lots of snow.
This advice and more details can be found in community centres or on their website
at www.ready.gov/winter-weather. There are a number of free publications that can
be ordered from their website and are free for US citizens. These are sent within six
weeks on being ordered, or can be downloaded direct from their website. The United
Kingdom government did not offer similar advice to its citizens. The advice from the
United States is to prepare for a winter storm by doing the following:
1. Before winter approaches, add the following supplies to your emergency kit:
Rock salt or more environmentally safe products to melt ice on walkways.
Sand to improve traction.
Snow shovels and other snow removal equipment.
Sufficient heating fuel. You may become isolated in your home and
regular fuel sources may be cut off. Store a good supply of dry, seasoned
wood for your fireplace or wood-burning stove.
Adequate clothing and blankets to keep you warm.
2. Make a Family Communications Plan. Minimize travel. If travel is necessary,
keep a disaster supplies kit in your vehicle.
3. Bring pets/companion animals inside during winter weather. Move other
animals or livestock to sheltered areas with non-frozen drinking water.
Temperatures recorded at one weather station in Ross-on-Wye during the week read:
Maximum Minimum
2nd feb 3 -1
3rd feb 5 -3
4th feb 5 -3
5th feb 2 -1
6th feb 2 -1
7th feb 5 -3
8th feb 4 -2