Britons are being warned to brace for a frosty start to 2026, with the Met Office forecasting potential snow and wintry hazards within the first ten days of the new year.
Met Office Issues Warning for Early January
Following a largely mild December for many, a sharp drop in temperatures is set to continue into the New Year. The Met Office has now detailed its outlook for the period from January 1 to January 10, 2026, highlighting an increased risk of disruptive winter weather.
The forecast indicates that an area of low pressure will initially move through the North Sea, bringing rain and showers southwards across the UK. Subsequently, high pressure is expected to build to the northwest, with low pressure to the east. This pattern is likely to establish a cold, showery northerly airflow for a time.
Where Could Snow Fall?
While this setup may bring settled conditions for many, the Met Office specifically warns of 'wintry hazards'. These could include snowfall to low levels, particularly affecting north-facing coastal areas at times.
Showers are expected to push further inland periodically, and there may be windier spells with more prolonged rain. However, on the whole, the period is predicted to be drier than average. Temperatures will likely be below average for much of the first ten days of January, though they may rise to near or above average later in the period.
Extended Outlook into Mid-January
Looking further ahead to January 11-25, the Met Office predicts a mix of settled weather and more changeable conditions. Spells of showers are likely, especially around coastal areas, with temperatures expected to be near average for the time of year.
This forecast is echoed by other weather services. The BBC Weather forecast for January 5-11 also suggests the possibility of snow, primarily over higher ground. It states that while a drier spell is possible initially, frontal systems may then move in from the Atlantic.
"For most areas, this will fall as rain, although some snow is possible at higher elevations - most likely across the Highlands," the BBC notes, adding that northern and western areas are expected to be wetter than the south and east.
Residents across the UK are advised to stay updated with the latest local forecasts as the new year begins, with the potential for travel disruption and icy conditions on the horizon.
