The Met Office has issued amber and yellow weather warnings as Arctic air from Scandinavia is set to bring snow and ice across large parts of the UK, marking a bitterly cold start to 2026. Snowfall is forecast for all four nations on Friday or Saturday, with blizzard conditions and 'thundersnow' expected in the Scottish Highlands.
Up to 40cm of snow is possible on higher ground in northern Scotland, with 10-20cm in lower-lying areas. Rain, sleet and hill snow are expected in Wales and central England, moving southwards and followed by icy stretches. Snow showers will persist in northern Scotland, while other areas will see bright and frosty conditions.
New Year's Eve saw sub-zero temperatures across much of Britain, dropping to -6.2C in Bournemouth and -2.5C in Cardiff. The wintry conditions are forecast to continue for several days, with potential delays and cancellations to rail and air travel, power cuts, and road disruptions. Some rural communities could become cut off.
Police Scotland urged motorists to consider whether journeys are essential, with Ch Supt Scott McCarren advising drivers to 'drive to the conditions' and not to ignore road closures. The heaviest snowfall is expected in northern Scotland, including the Highlands and Aberdeen area, into the weekend.
Health leaders have warned of 'extraordinary pressure' on the NHS, with the UK Health Security Agency issuing amber cold health alerts for all English regions until Tuesday. Dr Paul Coleman urged people to check on vulnerable friends and family, as cold weather increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes and chest infections.
