Swimmers Take the Plunge into Icy Waters to Ring in the New Year Amid 'Life-Threatening' Weather Alerts and Heavy Snowfall

New Year’s Day swimmers

Fearless swimmers have braved the icy waters across the UK to ring in the New Year.

This event follows a “risk to life” warning due to ice and severe weather conditions.

Countless adventurous bathers took to the seas for a traditional early morning dip as the UK welcomed 2026.

Many even added a touch of fancy dress to their outfits as they made the plunge.

People gathered at Whitley Bay, North Tyneside early today as hundreds faced the chilly waters of the North Sea for their New Year’s Day swim.

Further south at Minster-on-Sea, a large crowd gathered for their annual New Year’s Day swim, organized by the local Beach Hut Association.

Meanwhile, in Southend-on-Sea, a sizable group took to the waters for their morning swim.

Many participants donned fancy costumes or Santa hats to add a fun element, with one courageous individual dressing as a pirate.

In Abersoch, North Wales, Ellen Gibson from The Wirral enjoyed a splash in the sea.

Her joy was evident from the broad smile on her face.

Meanwhile, north of the border, the Loony Dook event in the Firth of Forth at South Queensferry celebrated the 40th anniversary of daring participants taking to the sea to shake off any lingering Hogmanay hangover.

This comes as the Met Office has issued amber weather warnings for snow in some parts of the UK, with yellow warnings in effect elsewhere, as citizens face a “risk to life” and a wintry start to 2026.

The Met Office has issued amber warnings for heavy snow showers that could cause disruptions in the Highlands and northeast between midday on Friday and midday on Saturday.

They warn that accumulations of 10-20cm of snow are likely at lower elevations, with 30-40cm possible on higher ground, while winds could result in temporary blizzard conditions.

Forecasters anticipate some delays and cancellations in rail and air travel, as well as potential power outages and disruptions on the roads, with some rural communities possibly becoming isolated.

Authorities advise individuals to consider whether their journeys are essential and to think about adjusting their plans.

Weather warnings are already in effect on New Year’s Day in Scotland, with a yellow warning for snow and ice covering the northern regions.

The Met Office predicts that 2-5cm of snow could accumulate by Thursday evening, with 10cm by Friday morning, and up to 20cm at elevations above 200 metres.

The warning is active until midnight on Friday, and over the weekend, it will extend further south, affecting areas down to Perth and southern parts of Argyll and Bute until midnight on Sunday.

Cold temperatures are expected throughout the country on New Year’s Day.