The UK is set for a weekend of bitterly cold weather, with up to 10cm of snow already settled in some areas and further heavy falls expected. The Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings for snow and ice across much of the country, with an amber warning for northern Scotland in place until midday Saturday.
Travel disruption is anticipated as snow and ice spread south-eastwards over England and Wales. A yellow warning covering London, Greater Manchester, and Cardiff is in effect until midday Friday, with 2-5cm of snow possible. In the Highlands, up to 40cm could accumulate on higher ground, while low-lying areas may see 20cm.
The amber warning for Scotland warns of potential power cuts and stranded vehicles. Loch Glascarnoch recorded over 8cm of snow Friday morning, and Aboyne had 9cm. The Met Office stated that heavy snow showers could merge, leading to longer spells of snow and blizzard-like conditions due to strong winds.
Yellow warnings extend into Monday for parts of Northern Ireland. 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 a cold weather alert until 6 January, warning of significant health impacts, including a rise in deaths among vulnerable groups.
