Bitterly cold weather is expected to grip the UK over the weekend, with up to 10cm of snow already settled in some areas. The Met Office has issued multiple yellow weather warnings for snow and ice, extending into Monday, while amber snow warnings for northern Scotland remain in place until midday Saturday.
Travel disruption is anticipated as wintry conditions move south-eastwards across England and Wales. A yellow warning for snow and ice covers London, Greater Manchester, and Cardiff until midday Friday, while a separate ice warning for south-west England runs until 10am. Up to 2cm of snow could fall in some areas, with 5cm on higher ground.
Heavy snowfall has already caused difficulties for motorists in the Highlands and north-east Scotland. The amber warnings could lead to power cuts and stranded vehicles. At Loch Glascarnoch, over 8cm of snow was recorded, while Aboyne had about 9cm. Forecasters warn of up to 20cm on low ground and 40cm on higher ground.
Yellow warnings are also in place for much of Northern Ireland until midday Monday. The Met Office stated that heavy snow showers may merge to give longer spells of snow, with wind causing snowdrifts and temporary blizzard conditions. The AA estimates 20.7 million car journeys on 2 January, advising longer travel times by road and rail.
The UK Health Security Agency has issued warnings across England until 6 January, noting potential significant impacts on health and social care services, including a rise in deaths among those with health conditions or aged 65 and over. A Met Office spokesperson said the cold spell is expected to persist into next week, with further warnings possible.
