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UK Faces Snow, Ice & Gales as New Year Dawns
1 Jan
Summary
- Freezing temperatures and potential snow showers are forecast for New Year's Eve.
- Scotland faces a yellow warning for heavy snow, ice, and gale force winds.
- Amber cold health alerts are issued for northern England due to expected low temperatures.
As 2026 begins, the UK is bracing for a significant cold spell, with freezing temperatures and wintry hazards expected across the country. New Year's Eve celebrations will be marked by chilly conditions, with temperatures hovering around 1-2C in London and slightly warmer in Cardiff.
Scotland is under a yellow warning for heavy snow, ice, and gale force winds from New Year's Day through Friday. Accumulations of up to 10cm of snow are predicted in some areas, with higher amounts on elevated terrain. Meanwhile, amber cold health alerts are in effect for northern England until January 5, signifying a likely impact on health and social care services.
These colder conditions are expected to persist through at least the first week of January. The UK Health Security Agency has issued yellow cold health alerts for the rest of England, cautioning about potential challenges for vulnerable individuals and increased demand on health services. Similar frigid temperatures, with lows potentially reaching -8.4C, were recorded recently and are expected to continue.
