MORE heavy rain and strong winds loom for Somerset with Storm Bert expected to bring more disruption to the UK.

The nation has been gripped by a series of ice and snow warnings in recent days, with wintry showers arriving in Wellington, Taunton and rural areas around the county.

A deep area of low pressure, which will bring more snow, rain and strong winds to parts of the region on Saturday and Sunday, has been named as Storm Burt - with rain warnings in place for the West Country.

Ahead of Storm Bert, wintry showers will continue to impact parts of the UK today and tomorrow (Friday, November 22) particularly exposed areas in the north, and there are still a number of National Severe Weather Warnings in place for snow and ice.

Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Dan Holley said: “Storm Bert marks a shift to much milder air and wintry hazards will gradually diminish through the weekend, but heavy snowfall is expected across parts of northern England and Scotland for a time on Saturday, especially over higher ground, and warnings are in place.”

“Heavy rain through Saturday and Sunday, especially in southern and western parts of the UK, will also bring impacts for some with a number of warnings in place. We expect 50-75 mm of rainfall quite widely within the warning areas, but in excess of 100 mm is possible over high ground in parts of Wales and southwest England.

“In addition, rapid melting of lying snow over the weekend and periods of strong winds are likely to exacerbate impacts and bring the potential for travel disruption, as well as flooding for some.”

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a number of amber and yellow Cold Health Alerts covering the whole of England. This alert system is aimed at health and social care professionals and anyone with a role in reducing health impacts caused by extended periods of cold weather. You can receive alerts directly via email by signing up for alerts or contact UKHSA for more information.

RAC Breakdown spokesperson Alice Simpson said: "The first taste of winter means drivers are suddenly contending with the some of the worst road conditions we’ve seen all year. With freezing temperatures already causing disruption in the east and north of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, and snow showers now affecting regions further south, we advise motorists to plan well as ice forms on untreated surfaces.

“Drivers should ensure their tyres have plenty of tread and are inflated to the correct pressure to give them the best possible grip on the road. It’s best to stick to major roads, rather than rural areas where surfaces may not be gritted, reduce speeds and leave plenty of space behind the vehicle in front to ensure you have more time to stop. Everyone should travel prepared in case they find themselves broken down at the side of the road: a blanket, warm waterproof coat and gloves, sturdy footwear and a charging cable and mobile power bank are all essentials.”