Weather alerts from the Met OfficeTHE Met Office has issued weather alerts for snow and ice across many regions as an Arctic blast is expected to sweep through the country – a rare Amber alert has also been issued.
For New Year’s Day, a yellow warning for snow and ice has been issued in the northern regions from 6am until the end of Friday.
A woman walks her dog in Touchen End, Berkshire on New Year’s Eve as more snow, ice, and cold conditions are anticipatedCredit: PA
Snow and ice are forecasted to affect large areas of the UK tomorrow, according to the Met OfficeCredit: MET Office
A rare cold health alert has been issued for all of England
A yellow warning for wind is also in effect until 9am on January 1 in Orkney and Shetland, Highlands and Eilean Siar, and Aberdeenshire where gusts may exceed 70mph.
Those planning a walk or swim on New Year’s Day should prepare for chilly conditions, with expected highs of 5°C in some areas, 7°C in others, 6°C in some places, 3°C in others, and 8°C in additional locations, according to the forecaster.
In a post on X on Wednesday, the Met Office stated that a “dip in the sea” on January 1 would feel “relatively mild compared to the wind chill expected on land,” advising people along eastern coasts to be cautious of large waves and higher tides caused by strong winds.
On January 2, another yellow warning for snow and ice has been issued across large parts of the country, including Chester and Greater Manchester down to London and beyond, from midnight until noon.
Snow accumulation of up to 5cm could cover some areas, particularly on higher ground in parts of North Wales and north-west England, according to forecasters.
Separate yellow warnings are also in effect for Northern Ireland from midnight until 10am on Friday.
Residents are advised to prepare for longer travel times by road, as well as on bus and train services.
The forecaster has additionally warned of the risk of injuries from slips and falls on icy surfaces that will develop rapidly as sleet and snow clear.
A Met Office spokeswoman stated: “This warning highlights the risk of disruptive snow showers and icy surfaces, particularly in northern and eastern areas, which may impact travel and pose potential hazards for the public.
“We anticipate this cold spell will persist into the weekend and into next week, with further warnings likely as temperatures remain significantly below average and snow showers continue in certain areas.”
The UK Security Agency (UKHSA) has also issued more severe warnings for the start of the year.
It had previously issued amber cold health alerts in the North East and North West of England.
However, these amber cold health alerts have now been expanded to include all of England.
These warnings began at 8pm on December 31 and will remain in effect until 10am on January 6.
The UKHSA indicated that this means the weather is “likely” to have significant impacts on health and social care services, including a “rise in deaths” among those with health conditions or individuals aged 65 and over.
Dr. Paul Coleman, a consultant in health protection at the UKHSA, mentioned: “The weather is expected to be very cold across England in the coming days.
“Such low temperatures can have serious consequences on the health of vulnerable individuals, particularly older adults and those with serious health issues.
“Exposure to cold can increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and chest infections.
“Thus, it is essential to check in on friends, family, and neighbours who are most vulnerable as colder weather approaches.”
On Thursday, temperatures are predicted to drop significantly in northern England, north Wales, and Scotland.
Frequent and at times heavy snow showers are expected across northern Scotland and potentially in north-east England.
However, fine and bright conditions are anticipated across much of the UK before the weather warning takes effect on Friday.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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