Amber warning for snow issued

Amber warnings for snow are in place covering parts of northern and eastern Scotland from midday Friday (2 January 2026) for 24 hours.

Yellow warnings for snow and ice also remain in force across parts of Scotland, Northen Ireland, Wales and central and southern England.

Cold Arctic air now covers most of the UK, with temperatures well below average, widespread frost and ice and an increasing risk of snow showers. Snow is expected to settle on the ground in some areas particularly in northern and some central areas. There is also a risk of widespread ice, making travel hazardous.

Chief Forecaster, Neil Armstrong, said "With Arctic air now covering most of the UK very cold weather will continue through the weekend, with minus double figures overnight in places and daytime temperatures struggling to rise above 0°C for some.

"It looks like this cold spell could last well into next week and wintry hazards will continue with more weather warnings likely. It is therefore important people keep up to date with the latest forecast and warnings and plan ahead."

Staying safe in colder temperatures

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued amber cold health alerts for England until January 6.

Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, said: "As the colder weather sets in it is vital to check in on friends, family and neighbours that are most vulnerable.

"The forecast temperatures can have a serious impact on the health of some people, leading to increased risk of heart attacks, strokes and chest infections, particularly for individuals over the age of 65 and those with pre-existing health conditions."

George Fiddes from Transport Scotland said: "Particularly cold weather is expected this week which is likely to impact driving conditions in the areas covered by the yellow warning, so our advice to motorists is to plan your journey, leave extra time if needed and drive to the conditions.

"The Traffic Scotland website gives people access to the latest information on the trunk road network and the Traffic Scotland X/Twitter page is also updated regularly so you can check if your route is available before setting off.

"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."

Age Scotland's policy director, Adam Stachura, said: "With such cold temperatures and icy conditions ahead, try and make sure you have enough food and any important medications at home to reduce the need for unnecessary and potentially risky trips. This is particularly important if you have mobility challenges or are unsteady on your feet by avoiding slips, falls and the need for medical attention.

"If heating your home is a challenge, try and stay warm in the room or place you will spend most of your time by wearing layered clothing, taking warm drinks and food with some regular movement to help with circulation and keeping your muscles active. And if you are out clearing paths and your drive of snow an ice, please think about also doing so for your older neighbours to help make it easier for them to leave the house if they need to. That act of kindness will go a long way."

With freezing temperatures and the potential for snow and ice, the Met Office's WeatherReady campaign offers practical advice to help you prepare your home, garden, and daily routines for winter weather. For the latest warnings and forecasts, visit: Met Office warnings and advice

Read: 5 tips for staying safe in snow

Read: 4 tips for staying safe in ice

Read: Keeping your home warm this winter

Read: How cold weather affects your health

Read: What to do if you have a frozen or burst pipe

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