Christmas Day celebrations across parts of the UK have been disrupted by severe weather warnings, with strong winds and cold conditions prompting the cancellation of festive events.
Health and Weather Agencies Issue Dual Alerts
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Met Office have both issued yellow-level warnings for Christmas Day, 25 December 2025. The UKHSA's cold health alert for South West England is active from 6pm on Thursday until midday on 27 December. It warns of potential minor disruptions to health services and an increased risk to vulnerable individuals.
Simultaneously, the Met Office has issued a yellow wind warning for the same region and much of Wales, valid from 4am until 11.59pm on Christmas Day. Forecasters predict east to north-easterly winds will become strong and gusty, with widespread gusts of 45-55mph and the potential for 55-65mph gusts along exposed coasts and to the west of hills.
Event Cancellations and Travel Disruption
The adverse forecast has led to the cancellation of several traditional Christmas Day events, including organised sea swims in the South West. The Met Office cautioned that the unusual wind direction could lead to transport disruption, power supply issues, and hazardous large waves on some coasts.
Met Office spokesman Oli Claydon provided a detailed outlook. He stated that Christmas Day would begin brightly in southern England and Wales before cloud clears, with sunnier spells developing further north by lunchtime. However, the strong easterly wind, particularly along the south coast of England, will be a notable and gusty feature of the day.
Cold Settles In, White Christmas Ruled Out
High pressure is now dominating the UK's weather, bringing settled but cooler conditions. Mr Claydon confirmed it is "highly unlikely" the UK will see a white Christmas this year, with a very dry picture expected. The highest temperatures on Christmas Day are forecast to be around 7°C in North East England and 6°C in the south or South East.
Following Christmas Day, frost and freezing temperatures are anticipated in western rural areas overnight into Boxing Day. Forecasters warn that temperatures could plunge to minus 6°C in rural Scotland and minus 4°C in rural Wales.
The public, especially vulnerable groups, are advised to take necessary precautions against the cold and windy conditions and to check for local travel updates before venturing out.
