The Met Office has urged residents in 79 areas across the UK to prepare essential items as widespread snow and ice are expected to hit from New Year's Day. Warnings for snow and ice begin at 6am on Thursday and last until midnight on Sunday, with some areas potentially experiencing temperatures as low as -12°C.
The warnings cover parts of England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. The Met Office advises people to gather torches, batteries, and a mobile phone power pack due to the risk of power cuts. Vehicles could become stranded, injuries from icy surfaces are likely, and rural communities may become cut off.
In Scotland, up to 30cm of snow could fall on higher ground, with 10cm possible in low-lying areas. Northern Ireland could see 2cm of snow, mainly in the north. Parts of England and Wales may receive up to 5cm on higher ground, with travel disruption expected in cities including London and Birmingham.
The warnings continue into the weekend, with Scotland facing further snow on January 3 and 4, where up to 30cm is possible over high ground. The Met Office warns of drifting snow, temporary blizzard conditions, and lightning near showers.
