The UK is in the grip of a severe new year cold snap, with the Met Office confirming the coldest night of the winter so far. Temperatures plummeted to a bone-chilling -12.5C (9.5F) in Marham, Norfolk, early on Tuesday, 6 January 2026.
Widespread Disruption and School Closures
The extreme conditions have caused significant disruption across the country. In Scotland, two amber warnings for snow are in effect, leading to the closure of hundreds of schools in the north. Authorities have confirmed that schools in Shetland, Orkney and Aberdeenshire will remain shut on Tuesday.
Travel networks are also suffering. National Rail has stated that train services in northern Scotland will be disrupted until the end of the day. The AA reported a 40% spike in callouts compared to a typical Monday, as motorists struggled with icy roads.
Nationwide Freeze and Record Lows
The freeze was felt nationwide, with widespread yellow warnings for snow and ice covering much of the UK. Other notable low temperatures recorded overnight included:
- -11.2C (11.84F) in Dalwhinnie, Scottish Highlands.
- -10.9C (12.38F) at Shap in Cumbria on Monday.
- -9C (15.8F) in Charlwood, southern England.
- -5C (23F) in London at 5am.
The Met Office also noted that 52cm of snow was recorded in Banffshire, Scotland on Monday. The UK Health Security Agency has issued amber cold health alerts across England, which remain in force until Friday.
Further Snow Risk Later This Week
Looking ahead, Met Office forecaster Aidan McGivern has indicated the potential for further disruptive weather. An approaching Atlantic low-pressure system could bring more snow later in the week.
"There is a 30% chance that the front moves through northern France, bringing disruptive snow to southern counties in England, especially in higher areas," Mr McGivern said. He added that central England also faces a risk of snow disruption, while the most likely outcome for southern parts is wind and rain.
The public is advised to stay updated on the latest forecasts and travel advice as the cold spell continues.
