Millions of Britons heading out for New Year's Eve celebrations are being urged to wrap up warm as a severe Arctic freeze descends on the country, bringing the threat of heavy snow, ice, and disruptive gale-force winds.
Chilly Celebrations Nationwide
Forecasters have warned that it will be "cold regardless of where you are" tonight as the icy blast takes hold. In London, where crowds will gather for the mayor's fireworks display by the Thames, temperatures are predicted to hover just above freezing at midnight, around 1-2C, under mostly clear skies.
Similar conditions are expected in Cardiff, with slightly warmer temperatures of 2-3C. Further north, cloudier skies are forecast but should not obscure firework displays. Met Office forecaster Simon Partridge stated, "We are not looking at low cloud, mist or murk, so you should be able to see fireworks, just not stars."
However, Hogmanay revellers in Edinburgh have been told to expect wind gusts of up to 30mph and a chance of wintry showers and hail.
Severe Warnings for Snow and Ice
The most significant warnings are for Scotland, where the Met Office has issued a 42-hour yellow warning for heavy snow showers, ice, and gale-force winds. This alert is active from 6am on New Year's Day until the end of Friday.
Up to 10cm of snow could accumulate in some areas by Friday morning, with the potential for 30cm or more on the highest roads and hills. The strong northerly winds will exacerbate the cold and likely cause travel disruption.
Mark Sidaway, Met Office deputy chief forecaster, said: "It certainly looks like we are in for a taste of 'winter'... Arctic air and strong northerly winds will bring cold or very cold conditions to all parts of the UK."
Public Health Alert Issued
Alongside the weather warnings, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has activated amber cold health alerts for the North East and North West of England until noon on January 5. A yellow alert covers the rest of England.
The UKHSA warned that the prolonged cold spell is "likely" to cause significant impacts on health and social care, including an increased risk of mortality for vulnerable groups, higher demand for NHS services, and challenges in keeping homes and hospitals adequately heated.
Early risers on New Year's Day are also advised to take care due to patches of freezing fog expected in the west and north-west of England and lingering fog in the South West.
As the nation prepares to ring in 2026, the message from officials is clear: celebrate safely, dress in extra layers, and stay updated on the latest forecasts and travel advice as this cold spell is set to dominate the first week of January.
