Britons are preparing for a wintry start to the new year, with temperatures expected to plummet to -2°C in some areas on New Year’s Eve and the potential for significant snowfall in parts
of the UK.
The Met Office has issued a yellow warning for rain and snow, which will remain in place throughout Monday and Tuesday. This follows widespread fog over the festive period, which caused travel disruptions, including numerous flight delays and cancellations.
Yellow warning across Scotland
The yellow weather alert covers large parts of Scotland, including Glasgow, Edinburgh, Perth, Inverness, and Aberdeen. According to the Met Office, snow is expected in the north and east of Perthshire, particularly over higher ground. Accumulations of 10-20 cm are likely above elevations of 150-200 meters.
In addition to snow, heavy rainfall is forecast, with 50-70 mm expected over two days in many areas, and some locations in western Scotland could see up to 100-140 mm. Strong winds are also anticipated, which could exacerbate travel difficulties, particularly on New Year’s Eve.
Persistent snow warning for Orkney and Shetland
A separate yellow warning for persistent snow has been issued for Orkney and Shetland on Tuesday. The alert, in effect from 5 a.m. throughout the day, predicts up to 20 cm of snow in the most affected areas, such as Mainland and Hoy, with 5-10 cm expected elsewhere.
The Met Office has cautioned that travel conditions will likely be challenging, with longer journey times expected due to difficult driving conditions.
Potential for flooding
As milder air moves in, snow is expected to turn back to rain, potentially causing rapid snowmelt and localized flooding. The Met Office has warned of spray and flooding leading to hazardous driving conditions, road closures, and delays or cancellations on train and bus services. Fast-flowing or deep floodwater could pose a danger to life in some areas.
New Year’s weather outlook
Rain and strong winds may bring further disruption during the New Year celebrations. Met Office meteorologist Simon Partridge said: “Rain is likely to become persistent and occasionally heavy on Monday, possibly lasting through New Year’s Eve. This may lead to significant disruption and flooding in the build-up to New Year’s events, although there remains uncertainty about which areas will be most affected.”
By New Year’s Day, unsettled weather—including disruptive wind, rain, and snow—could extend to southern parts of the UK.
Weekend Weather
Over the weekend, Scotland will experience “a little bit windier and wetter” conditions, with northern Scotland seeing showers due to low-pressure systems. Meanwhile, southern areas will remain “pretty cloudy,” with occasional breaks in the cloud cover thanks to slightly stronger winds.
Temperatures will feel slightly cooler, with highs of 9-11°C, compared to the earlier week’s 11-13°C. Overnight frost will likely be limited, keeping conditions mild for the time of year.
However, Mr. Partridge warned that wetter and windier conditions, particularly across Scotland, are expected to take hold by New Year’s Eve—a concern given Scotland’s traditional emphasis on Hogmanay celebrations. Photo by Jason Yates, Wikimedia commons.