The Met Office has issued amber and yellow weather warnings across the UK as Arctic air from Scandinavia brings snow and ice to large parts of the country, marking a bitterly cold start to 2026.
Snowfall is expected in all four nations on Friday or Saturday, with blizzard conditions and 'thundersnow' possible in the Scottish Highlands. Up to 40cm of snow could fall on higher ground in northern Scotland, with 10-20cm in lower-lying areas. Rain, sleet and hill snow are forecast for Wales and central England, moving southwards and leaving icy stretches.
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 expected to persist for several days, causing delays and cancellations to rail and air travel, as well as power cuts and road disruptions. Some rural communities may become cut off.
Police Scotland's head of road policing, Ch Supt Scott McCarren, urged motorists to consider whether journeys are essential and to drive to conditions if travelling. Amber warnings are in place for northern Scotland, while yellow warnings cover the Highlands, Northern Ireland, Wales and England.
The UK Health Security Agency has issued amber cold health alerts for all English regions until next Tuesday. Dr Paul Coleman warned that low temperatures increase risks of heart attacks, strokes and chest infections, particularly for older people and those with serious health conditions, urging people to check on vulnerable neighbours.
