Britons are set to welcome the New Year with a significant blast of wintry weather, as forecasters warn of snow, ice and potentially disruptive gale-force winds across parts of the country.
Met Office Issues Warnings for Snow and Ice
The Met Office has taken action by issuing a yellow weather warning for snow and ice. This alert covers the entirety of northern Scotland, north of the central belt, and is active from 6am on New Year's Day until midnight on Friday, 2 January 2026.
The regions and local authorities affected include Central, Tayside and Fife, Grampian, Highlands and Eilean Siar, Orkney and Shetland, and Strathclyde. These areas are expected to be battered by strong northerly winds, which could reach gale force.
Significant snow accumulations are anticipated, with around 10cm likely to settle in some areas by Friday morning. On the highest roads and hills, this could build to depths of up to 30cm. The Met Office has cautioned that the high winds will likely cause significant snow drifting, and lightning may also pose an additional hazard.
Cold Health Alerts and Wider UK Impact
While New Year's Eve will be largely settled for many, conditions are set to deteriorate sharply as the year turns. Amber cold health alerts have been issued for the North East and North West of England, remaining in force until noon on 5 January. Temperatures in these regions are forecast to hover between 3C and 5C.
Mark Sidaway, Deputy Chief Forecaster at the Met Office, stated: "It certainly looks like we are in for a taste of 'winter' as we welcome in the New Year... Arctic air and strong northerly winds will bring cold or very cold conditions to all parts of the UK."
He emphasised that the cold spell is expected to last through at least the first week of January, with wintry hazards becoming more widespread. Further warnings for snow and ice are likely to be issued.
Travel Disruption Expected
The impending severe weather is expected to cause travel difficulties. George Fiddes from Transport Scotland advised motorists in the warning areas to plan their journeys, leave extra time, and drive to the conditions.
He also warned that disruption could extend beyond road travel, adding: "There may also be disruption on other modes of transport, so please check with your operator before setting off if you're planning to travel by rail, ferry or air."
The public is urged to stay informed by keeping up to date with the latest Met Office forecasts and official travel advice as 2026 begins under a frosty, snowy blanket.
