The UK is set for a bitterly cold weekend with yellow weather warnings for snow and ice in place across large parts of England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, extending into Monday. The Met Office has warned of up to 10cm of snow in some areas, with travel disruption expected.
An amber snow warning for northern Scotland remains in force until midday Saturday, with up to 20cm of snow on low ground and 40cm on higher ground possible. Blizzard-like conditions and power cuts may occur, with vehicles at risk of becoming stranded.
On Friday morning, about 2cm of snow fell in parts of England and Wales, with up to 5cm on higher ground. Areas including London, Greater Manchester, Cardiff, and the south-west of England are under yellow warnings, while snow already settled in the Highlands and Aberdeenshire, with Loch Glascarnoch seeing over 8cm and Aboyne around 9cm.
The AA expects up to 20.7 million car journeys on 2 January as people travel after New Year’s Day. Drivers are advised to allow extra time and be cautious on roads and railways.
The Met Office stated the cold spell will persist into next week, with further warnings possible as temperatures remain well below average. The UK Health Security Agency has issued warnings across England until 6 January, warning of significant impacts on health services and a potential rise in deaths among vulnerable groups.
