The UK is bracing for a severe and prolonged Arctic freeze, with forecasters warning of significant snow, ice, and travel disruption as the New Year begins. The Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings for snow and ice across the nation, signalling a sharp turn towards wintry conditions after a relatively mild Christmas period.
Met Office Issues Warnings as Deep Freeze Arrives
The cold snap, driven by a dislocated polar vortex moving straight from the North Pole, will see temperatures plummet from New Year's Eve onwards. Friday, January 2nd, is expected to be one of the coldest days, with warnings extending from London to Manchester and covering Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Meteorologist Jim Dale described the incoming weather as "the nightmare after Christmas", with widespread snow anticipated, particularly in northern and eastern parts of the UK. He warned that the wintry conditions could persist until around January 10th, beginning in Scotland before pushing south.
Forecast for Snow and Dangerously Low Temperatures
The forecast predicts stark temperature drops and substantial snowfall. Key predictions include:
- Parts of Scotland could see lows of -12°C.
- Wales and northern England may experience temperatures as low as -7°C inland.
- London will see lows of around 1°C on Friday, with up to 5cm of snow in some areas.
- By Friday morning, 2cm to 5cm of snow is predicted widely, with 10cm to 20cm possible in areas above 200 metres.
- There is a risk of blizzards due to strong winds combining with snowfall.
The Met Office has stated that a transition to "more unsettled and wintry conditions" is imminent, with further warnings likely. Deputy Chief Forecaster Mark Sidaway confirmed that "Arctic air and strong northerly winds will bring cold or very cold conditions to all parts of the UK" in the first week of 2026.
Health Alerts and Travel Disruption Expected
Alongside the weather warnings, health agencies have raised the alarm. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued an amber cold health alert for the North East and North West of England until January 5th, with a yellow alert for all other English regions.
Dr Agostinho Sousa of the UKHSA urged the public to check on vulnerable neighbours and relatives, noting the serious health impacts such cold can have, including increased risks of heart attacks and strokes.
The combination of snow, ice, and strong winds is expected to cause significant travel disruption across the country's road and rail networks. The public is advised to stay updated with the latest forecasts and travel information as the Arctic freeze takes hold.
