UK Braced for Snow and Ice as Met Office Issues Fresh Weather Warnings
A sharp change in the weather is now being felt across the UK, as snow and ice warnings have been issued by the Met Office, signalling a cold and disruptive start to 2026. After months of relatively mild conditions, winter is finally making its presence known, and large parts of England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland are being urged to prepare.
A yellow weather warning for snow and ice has been put in place across wide areas, including the West Midlands, stretching from Wales through northern and central England and into the south-east. The warning runs from midnight through to midday, with temperatures expected to fall low enough for snowfall and icy conditions to develop quickly. Travel disruption is likely, particularly on untreated roads, pavements, and rural routes, and people have been advised to take extra care if they need to head out.
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Alongside this, the UK Health Security Agency has upgraded several cold-weather alerts to amber. These alerts highlight the increased risks posed by prolonged low temperatures, especially for people aged 65 and over or those living with existing health conditions. The warnings are expected to remain in place into early January, as the cold snap continues to grip the country.
Forecasters have suggested that snowfall could build up to several centimetres in many areas, with much deeper accumulations possible on higher ground, particularly in northern England and Scotland. Strong winds in some regions may also lead to drifting snow, further complicating travel. Slips and falls are being flagged as a major concern, as icy surfaces can form rapidly once sleet or snow clears.
Despite the cold, conditions around New Year celebrations were expected to stay mostly dry and clear, offering good visibility for fireworks displays across much of the UK. However, revellers were reminded to wrap up warm, as temperatures hovered close to freezing in many cities, including London, where midnight temperatures were expected to sit just above zero.
Health officials have also warned that the cold weather could place extra strain on hospitals and care services, with indoor temperatures in some settings dropping below recommended levels. People are being encouraged to keep homes heated to at least 18°C where possible and to check in on vulnerable friends, family members, and neighbours.
Looking ahead, forecasters say the cold will linger for several days before milder conditions eventually return later in the month. For now, though, winter has clearly arrived, and much of the UK is being reminded to slow down, stay warm, and stay safe as snow and ice take hold.
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