Freezing Arctic Blast Disrupts UK Rail Services Amid Plunging Temperatures

As of November 17th, 2025, the UK is bracing for a severe cold snap, with freezing Arctic air causing widespread disruption to rail services across the country. Temperatures have plunged to as low as -7°C in parts of the Highlands, the coldest recorded since March.

The Met Office has issued warnings of a 'cold week ahead', with snow, frost, and ice expected to grip the nation in the coming days. This marks a stark contrast to the recent spell of above-average temperatures, which the forecaster says was the warmest start to November on record.

The cold weather has already caused significant problems for rail travelers, with National Rail reporting that services between Walsall and Rugeley Trent Valley, as well as between Plymouth and Penzance, have been affected. Buses are replacing trains on some routes, and passengers have been advised to expect cancellations, delays, and revisions to their journeys.

Forecasters predict that the cold snap will continue throughout the week, with temperatures struggling to climb above single figures across the country. The combination of freezing temperatures and strong northerly winds is expected to create a significant wind chill, making it feel even colder.

Despite the disruption, the Met Office has said that the wintry conditions are a "notable change" after the recent spell of milder weather, and that the cold weather is "here to stay" for the foreseeable future.