The Met Office has issued a significant new weather warning for ice, set to affect a vast swathe of the United Kingdom over a 24-hour period. The alert highlights hazardous conditions expected as temperatures drop sharply.
Warning Details and Affected Areas
The yellow-level warning for ice will be active from midday on Friday, January 9, until midday on Saturday, January 10, 2026. Forecasters warn that partially thawed snow is likely to refreeze overnight as thermometers fall below zero, creating a widespread risk of icy surfaces on roads and pavements.
In addition to the refreezing snow, the Met Office states that wintry showers will continue, particularly affecting parts of Wales and potentially the West Midlands. Freezing fog patches are also anticipated in some regions, which will add to the dangerous conditions.
Key Hazards and Met Office Advice
The primary risks stem from a combination of factors. "Partially thawed snow during Friday will likely freeze overnight as temperatures fall below freezing, leading to a widespread ice risk," explained a Met Office spokesperson. There is some uncertainty regarding the extent of further precipitation, but any rain or sleet that falls onto frozen ground will significantly increase the danger.
Freezing fog poses an additional, stealthy hazard, as it can form a thin, almost invisible layer of ice on surfaces. The public is urged to exercise extreme caution while travelling and to allow extra time for journeys.
Regions and Local Authorities Under the Warning
The ice warning encompasses numerous counties and unitary authorities across the country. The affected regions are extensive and include:
- East Midlands: Derby, Derbyshire, Leicester, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, Rutland.
- London & South East England: Oxfordshire.
- North West England: Cheshire East, Cheshire West and Chester, Greater Manchester, Lancashire.
- South West England: Bath and North East Somerset, Bristol, Gloucestershire, North Somerset, Somerset, South Gloucestershire, Wiltshire.
- Wales: Blaenau Gwent, Bridgend, Caerphilly, Cardiff, Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Gwynedd, Merthyr Tydfil, Monmouthshire, Neath Port Talbot, Newport, Powys, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Torfaen, Vale of Glamorgan, Wrexham.
- West Midlands: Herefordshire, Shropshire, Staffordshire, Stoke-on-Trent, Telford and Wrekin, Warwickshire, West Midlands Conurbation, Worcestershire.
- Yorkshire & Humber: South Yorkshire, West Yorkshire.
Residents and travellers in these areas are advised to stay updated with the latest forecasts and travel information from local authorities and transport providers before setting out.
