London's Deep Freeze: Met Office Ice Warning & 11-Day Rain Forecast

A biting Arctic chill has firmly gripped the capital, marking a dramatic shift in conditions for Londoners. The Met Office has now activated a yellow weather warning for ice, signalling hazardous conditions for many parts of the country.

Where Does The Ice Warning Hit?

The official Met Office weather map reveals a swathe of warnings for ice and snow across much of the UK. While the most severe conditions are concentrated further north, the alert for ice extends southwards, just grazing the north-westerly edge of London. This means that while the majority of the capital is not under the formal warning, the risk of icy patches on untreated surfaces remains a real threat for those on the outskirts.

Authorities are urging the public to exercise significant caution, particularly when walking on footpaths or driving on roads during the early morning and evening. Choosing appropriate footwear and allowing extra time for journeys is highly advised.

London's Chilly Forecast and Soaking Sequel

Escaping the official warning does not mean London is in for mild weather. Far from it. The city is braced for a sustained period of cold, with today, Wednesday, November 19, experiencing a high of just 6°C and an overnight low of -1°C.

The subsequent days will see a slight moderation in the mercury. Thursday and Friday are forecast to have sunny intervals with highs of 5°C and 6°C respectively. However, a significant change is on the horizon from Saturday, November 22.

BBC Weather predicts an unbroken 11-day stretch of rain, lasting from November 22nd right through to December 2nd. This period will see temperatures become less frigid but conditions turn decidedly wet and gloomy.

Official Health Warning Issued

In response to the plummeting temperatures, the UK Health Security Agency has issued a general cold weather warning. This alert highlights the health risks associated with such conditions, especially for the elderly, very young, and those with pre-existing health conditions. The public is encouraged to check on vulnerable neighbours and ensure homes are heated to a safe level.

Here is the detailed Met Office forecast for London, with high and low temperatures provided: