Four English counties spared from looming UK snow blast as West Midlands decision announced
England is preparing for a major weather event after meteorologists warned of a “massive snow bomb” due to hit in early February. The storm is expected to begin on 7 February, with maps showing a sharp deterioration in conditions. A cold front is forecast to sweep in from the east, carrying heavy snow from the continent and set to hit large parts of England.
What the weather services are saying
Several weather outlets have backed up the forecast, giving weight to the warning. WX Charts, Ventusky, and Netweather TV have all published maps and charts showing a sudden downturn from 7 February. Those visuals show the likely path and strength of the wintry assault across different areas.
Forecasters say the heaviest snow and plunging temperatures will mainly affect the western parts of England. The West Midlands has been singled out as “earmarked to take a pummelling,” with “bands of white” expected to sweep across the area. The Midlands, North West, and North East are also forecast to see significant snowfall. On the east coast, places such as Yorkshire, Norfolk, and Suffolk are described as set to be battered by harsh conditions, underlining how widespread the event could be.
Which counties might be spared and why
Interestingly, some counties are thought likely to avoid the worst of the storm. Devon, Cornwall, Dorset, and Somerset — all in the west — are expected to be spared because the snow is arriving from the east. With the snow making landfall from the continent, western counties are less likely to see intense conditions; meteorological maps tentatively suggest a “slither of England” that will remain unaffected.
Railway disruption in the south‑west
Alongside the forecasted snowstorm, the south‑west is already facing a major transport headache. The main rail line between Exeter St Davids and Newton Abbot has been partly closed indefinitely after a sea wall collapsed during Storm Ingrid, leaving “significant debris” across a two-mile stretch of track (equivalent to 3.2 km). Great Western Railway (GWR) has warned passengers not to try travelling on that route until further notice.
James Davis, a spokesman for GWR, told BBC Radio Devon that the damage is extensive and the line will stay closed until Network Rail completes the necessary repairs (Network Rail is the organisation responsible for the UK rail infrastructure). Replacement transport is being provided at both Exeter St Davids and Newton Abbot.
Damage to infrastructure and local reaction
The condition in Dawlish highlights how vulnerable local infrastructure can be to severe weather. Large amounts of debris have been left along the affected section of track, meaning Network Rail will need to carry out urgent work to make the line safe again. Local officials have expressed upset about the situation, with the town’s mayor, Cate Williams, calling the scene “sad” and stressing that the structure had stood up to past challenges, including world wars.
What this means beyond the weather
As England prepares for this “massive snow bomb”, the consequences go beyond simple disruption to the forecast. Transport links, community safety and the state of infrastructure are all at stake, so people and authorities need to be ready to respond quickly. The coming days will demand vigilance and practical measures from residents and officials alike. Keep an eye on updates and follow local guidance if you’re in an affected area.