🔗 Share this article

Forecasters are saying an icy beginning to the new year, with snowfall expected throughout a lot of the UK. Those celebrating are being urged to bundle up as near-freezing temperatures are expected for New Year's Eve.

Hogmanay Plans Continue Despite Warnings

Edinburgh's renowned Hogmanay festivities are set to go ahead, a contrast to last year's cancellation. This comes despite weather alerts for snow over northern Scotland.

"A chilly New Year's Eve evening for those partying, so extra layers will be needed," said the Met Office.

Displays Under Mostly Clear but Chilly Skies

Across the UK, the weather is set to be suited to fireworks shows, with dry conditions and open skies. The mercury are due to be chilly, so additional clothing vital, said forecasters.

In more northern areas, conditions will be more overcast, but this is not expected to affect visibility for seeing fireworks. "We are not looking at low cloud, mist or murk, so you ought to be able to see fireworks, just not stars," added one forecaster.

Extensive Snow Warnings for Friday

As we enter Friday, weather warnings have been issued for Northern Ireland and extending from Wales, across parts of the north-west, the West Midlands and all the way to London and most of the south-east of England.

• Commuting is expected to be affected.
• Travelers should to allow extra time for trips on the road.
• Hold-ups and call-offs are expected on trains and buses.

Readings Set to Drop Further

As 2026 begins, it will be "chilly no matter where you are," said forecaster Simon Partridge. The weather are forecast to drop further as wintry showers and strong winds are likely to affect the north of the country.

Around 10cm of snow is forecast to have accumulated in some areas by Friday morning, reaching up to 30cm on the top roads and uplands.

Medical Alerts Released

At the same time, amber cold health alerts have been issued for the north-east and north-west of England. These are expected to continue until noon on 5 January, with readings forecast to fall to between 3C and 5C.

Officials said this signified the weather could to cause major effects across health and social care services. This includes a likely increase in the fatality numbers among the elderly or unwell or those in the older age groups.

The advice for all is clear: to celebrate the new year in good health, dressing for the cold is completely essential.