Pennines

The Pennines are a mountain range in northern England, stretching from the Scottish Borders to the Midlands. They are currently newsworthy due to two distinct reasons. Firstly, an Arctic blast has brought snow, ice, and freezing temperatures, leading to the closure of major roads across the Pennines and widespread travel disruption. The Met Office issued yellow weather warnings, and a cold weather health alert is in effect. Secondly, a drone survey in the Cumbrian Pennines offers hope for the endangered dunlin, a bird whose habitat is threatened by drainage and burning for farming and grouse shooting. The Pennines are therefore relevant both as a region significantly impacted by adverse weather conditions and as a crucial habitat for vulnerable wildlife, highlighting the ongoing challenges of balancing environmental conservation with other land uses.