The United Kingdom is shivering through a severe and persistent cold snap, with temperatures forecast to remain at or below freezing for much of the first full week of 2026. The Met Office has issued a swathe of warnings for snow and ice, predicting travel chaos and potential isolation for rural communities as many people attempt to return to work and school after the festive break.
Nationwide Warnings and Hazardous Conditions
An amber snow warning is in force for parts of northern Scotland until 10am on Monday 5th January, covering areas including Aberdeen, Aviemore, and Ullapool. The Met Office forecasts heavy snow leading to significant travel disruption, with the potential for an additional 20cm to 30cm of accumulation on high ground by Monday morning. Lower levels could see a further 5cm to 10cm.
Separate yellow warnings for snow and ice blanket much of the rest of the country. These cover Wales, Greater Manchester, south-west England, and much of the east coast of England for ice. Almost all of Scotland north of Glasgow is under a yellow snow and ice alert until midnight on Monday.
Health Risks and Major Disruption
In tandem with the weather warnings, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued an amber cold health alert for England, which remains active until Tuesday. This serves as an early warning that the adverse conditions are likely to impact public health. Dr Agostinho Sousa, head of extreme events and health protection at the UKHSA, highlighted the serious risks.
"The forecast temperatures can have a serious impact on the health of some people," he warned, "leading to increased risk of heart attacks, strokes and chest infections, particularly for individuals over the age of 65 and those with pre-existing health conditions." He urged the public to check on vulnerable friends, family, and neighbours.
The disruptive impact is already being felt. Shetland Isles Council confirmed all schools will be closed on Monday. In Aberdeen, schools and early learning centres will not open until 11am, with breakfast clubs cancelled. Transport authorities are pleading for caution.
Travel Advice and Further Outlook
Scottish Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop stated that residents are facing more "challenging conditions and freezing temperatures" on top of what they have already endured. Her advice was clear: "If you have to travel then please ensure your vehicle is winter ready and have a winter kit in your car... If you can delay your journey until the amber warning has expired, please do so."
George Fiddes of Transport Scotland echoed this, advising motorists in yellow warning areas to plan journeys, leave extra time, and drive to the conditions. The Met Office also warned that flights could be cancelled and mobile phone coverage affected in the worst-hit regions.
Looking ahead, Met Office chief meteorologist Matthew Lehnert indicated that milder air will try to spread eastwards from Tuesday. "This will mean rain becomes more likely in the south, but there is also the possibility of more organised snow along the boundary of the mild and cold airmasses," he said, adding that strong winds could become a feature later in the week. For now, the deep freeze maintains its grip on the nation.
