Arctic Air Brings Severe Snow and Ice Across the UK at Start of 2026
Large parts of the UK are set to experience significant snow and ice as Arctic air arriving from Scandinavia brings a bitter start to 2026, according to the Met Office, which has issued amber and yellow weather warnings.
Snowfall of up to 40cm is forecast on higher ground in northern Scotland, with 10 to 20cm expected in lower-lying areas. Snow is anticipated to affect all four UK countries on Friday and Saturday (January 2–3), with the northern Scotland Highlands facing blizzard conditions and thundersnow.
Midnight temperatures across Britain were sub-zero, reaching -6.2C in Bournemouth and -2.5C in Cardiff. These wintry conditions are expected to continue for several days as the Arctic air mass moves across the UK.
Authorities warn that travel, power, and road disruptions are likely, with some rural communities potentially becoming cut off. Police Scotland has urged people to travel only if essential and cautioned against driving through road closures, which are being enforced for public safety.
The heaviest snow is expected in northern Scotland, the Highlands, and around Aberdeen, with amber warnings in place for those areas. Yellow warnings cover the Highlands, Northern Ireland, Wales, and England.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued amber cold health alerts across all regions of England until 10am on Tuesday, January 6. The cold weather increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and chest infections, prompting advice to check on vulnerable individuals.
Disruptions are expected to be most severe at the outset but should ease by early next week as schools reopen.
