Londoners should brace for a wintry start to the New Year, with forecasts predicting sleet and snow set to sweep across the capital in the coming days.
Sleet and Snow on the Horizon
While the festive period may have passed without a white Christmas, the first week of 2026 is poised to bring proper winter weather. According to the latest BBC Weather forecast, sleet is expected to fall in London on Friday, 2nd January. The wintry mix is predicted to arrive between 9am and 10am, potentially creating slippery conditions for morning travellers.
The main event, however, is scheduled for early next week. The BBC forecasts several hours of light snow across the capital on Tuesday, 6th January. The majority of the snowfall is expected between 6am and 10am, which is likely to cause significant disruption to the morning commute. Drivers and public transport users are advised to plan for longer journey times.
Sub-Zero Temperatures to Grip the Capital
The snowfall will be accompanied by a sharp drop in temperature. Multiple weather services, including the Met Office, are predicting sub-zero conditions for London over the next several days, particularly overnight. Temperatures could plunge to as low as -3°C towards the end of the week, prompting warnings for residents to wrap up warm and ensure heating is working effectively.
Detailed BBC Weather Outlook
The BBC's detailed forecast outlines a cold and changeable period. For New Year's Day, they predict a cloudy start with the possibility of an odd spot of rain, clearing to give way to bright spells. The cold theme continues into Friday, with that risk of morning sleet and snow before conditions turn drier and brighter in the afternoon. Saturday is expected to remain bright, breezy, and cold.
This combination of precipitation and freezing temperatures means that any settled snow or slush could turn to ice, increasing the risk of accidents on roads and pavements. Authorities typically issue gritting schedules for major routes, so commuters are encouraged to check local updates from Transport for London (TfL) and their local borough council.
After a relatively mild end to 2025, this forecast signals a definitive shift into winter for London, reminding residents that the coldest months of the year are now firmly upon us.
