A heavy frost covered the village of Dunsden in Oxfordshire early Thursday morning, marking the start of the new year with icy conditions as the cold weather settled across the area. The Guardian
A sharp blast of Arctic air swept into the UK at the start of the new year, bringing heavy snow, ice, and dangerous travel conditions to wide areas of the country. Weather officials warned that the freezing spell would affect all four nations and disrupt daily life as 2026 begins.
Forecasters said snow would fall across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland on Friday and Saturday. The cold air moved in from Scandinavia and pushed temperatures well below normal for early January.
Heavy Snow Hits Scotland First
The worst weather will hit northern Scotland, especially the Highlands and areas around Aberdeen. The Met Office said higher ground could see up to 40 centimetres of snow, while lower areas could receive between 10 and 20 centimetres. Blizzard conditions and even rare “thundersnow” may develop in the Highlands.
Snow showers will continue in northern Scotland through the weekend. Other parts of the UK will see brighter skies at times, but icy roads and pavements will remain a concern.
Freezing New Year’s Night
Many people welcomed the new year under freezing skies. Temperatures dropped well below zero in several cities at midnight on Wednesday. Bournemouth recorded -6.2°C, while Cardiff fell to -2.5°C. The deep freeze will continue for several days, forecasters said.
Rain, sleet, and hill snow will move through Wales and central England before shifting south. These systems will leave icy patches behind, especially overnight and early in the morning.
Travel Disruptions Likely
Weather experts warned of delays and cancellations across road, rail, and air travel. Snow and ice could also cause power cuts in some areas. Rural communities may face isolation if roads become blocked.
Police urged drivers to think carefully before setting out. Chief Superintendent Scott McCarren of Police Scotland advised caution. He said: “If you need to travel, please drive to the conditions, be prepared for delays and allow extra time for your journey. Please don’t drive through road closures. The decision to close roads is not taken lightly and is done for public safety.”
Warnings Cover Much of the UK
Amber weather warnings, which signal a high risk of disruption, cover large parts of northern Scotland. Yellow warnings for snow and ice stretch across the Highlands, Northern Ireland, Wales, and much of England. These alerts mean difficult travel conditions and possible service delays.
Forecasters expect the worst conditions to ease early next week, just as schools reopen and many people return to work.
Health Risks Rise in Deep Cold
Health officials also raised concerns about the impact of the cold on vulnerable people. The UK Health Security Agency issued amber cold health alerts for all regions of England until Tuesday morning.
Dr Paul Coleman, a health protection consultant, warned about the dangers. He said: “The weather is forecast to be very cold across England over the coming few days. Low temperatures like these can have serious impacts on the health of some people, particularly older people and those with serious health conditions.”
He urged people to check on neighbours, friends, and family members who may struggle in the cold.
