Millions of Britons heading out to ring in the New Year will need to wrap up warm, as forecasters warn of a biting Arctic freeze descending across the country. The Met Office has issued a series of yellow warnings for snow, ice, and gale-force winds, with significant travel disruption expected in parts of Scotland.
Chilly Celebrations Nationwide
Met Office forecaster Simon Partridge stated it will be 'cold regardless of where you are' tonight. While fireworks displays should remain visible, clear skies will bring a sharp chill. In London, temperatures will hover around a frigid 1-2C at midnight, with Cardiff slightly warmer at 2-3C. Edinburgh's Hogmanay revellers will contend with wind gusts of up to 30mph and potential hail showers.
"We are not looking at low cloud, mist or murk, so you should be able to see fireworks, just not stars," Mr Partridge advised. Patches of freezing fog may linger in the South West and parts of western England, prompting warnings for those travelling early on New Year's Day.
Snow and Gale Warnings for Scotland
A 42-hour yellow warning for heavy snow showers, ice, and gale-force winds is in force for Scotland, north of the central belt, from 6am on New Year's Day until the end of Friday. The Met Office warns that frequent snow showers may lead to travel disruption, with strong northerly winds exacerbating the cold.
By Friday morning, accumulations of 2-5cm are expected widely, with 10cm in some local areas and up to 30cm on the highest roads and hills. Deputy Chief Forecaster Mark Sidaway confirmed this marks the start of a wintry spell, with cold conditions and further snow and ice hazards expected to develop more widely across the UK in the first week of January.
Amber Cold Health Alerts Issued
The severe weather has triggered significant health warnings. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued an amber cold health alert for the North East and North West of England, valid until noon on 5 January. A yellow alert covers the rest of England.
The UKHSA warns the conditions are likely to have significant impacts across health and social care services, including an increased risk of death for vulnerable individuals, challenges in maintaining warm indoor temperatures, and heightened demand on the NHS. The agency urged people to check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours.
The cold snap follows a frosty week, with temperatures plunging to -8.4C at Tulloch Bridge in the Highlands on Monday. As the nation celebrates, the key message from officials is clear: wrap up, take care, and stay updated on the latest forecasts and warnings.
