The UK’s cold snap is set to continue throughout the week as low-pressure systems maintain below-average temperatures and increase the potential for weather-related disruption.
National Severe Weather Warnings for snow and ice remain in place and are expected to be updated as conditions develop.
Coldest Night of Winter Recorded
Last night saw the UK experience its coldest night of the winter so far, with temperatures plummeting to -13.3°C in Loch Glascarnoch, Scotland. In contrast, parts of southeast England remained much milder, with some areas recording double-figure temperatures. However, that milder air mass has now been replaced by a cold northwesterly flow, leading to further significant drops in overnight temperatures, particularly in areas with snow cover. Even in areas without snow, widespread frost and daytime temperatures below seasonal averages are expected.
Snow and Ice Forecast
Met Office Chief Meteorologist Frank Saunders provided further insight into the coming days:
“Hail, sleet, or snow showers are expected to affect parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland, spreading to Wales and northwest England this evening before moving into southwest England, the Midlands, and southern England early Tuesday morning. Rain or hail is more likely near western coasts.”
He added: “Icy stretches may form overnight due to these showers and recent wet conditions, potentially disrupting travel. Snow accumulations of a few centimeters are possible above 200 meters, with a chance of more than 5 cm in higher areas of Wales. Even low-lying regions may see temporary accumulations of 0-2 cm. It remains difficult to pinpoint exactly where snow will fall, so the public should remain prepared.”
Flood Risk and Warnings
The combination of rainfall and melting snow raises concerns of further disruption, with numerous flood warnings still in effect. Sarah Cook, Flood Duty Manager at the Environment Agency, warned:
“Heavy rain and melting snow mean significant river flooding is possible in the Midlands, with minor impacts expected across other parts of England on Monday and into Tuesday.”
She continued:
“Environment Agency teams are actively managing defences, issuing flood warnings, and supporting affected communities. People should check their flood risk, sign up for alerts, and stay informed through official channels.”
Residents are encouraged to monitor updates from the Environment Agency (England), SEPA (Scotland), NRW (Wales), and the Department for Infrastructure (Northern Ireland) for the latest flood risk information.
Potential for Further Snow on Wednesday
Looking ahead, there is a possibility of another system bringing further snow and ice midweek. A Yellow Warning has been issued for Wednesday.
Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Mike Silverstone cautioned:
“A further spell of rain, sleet, and snow could move in from the southwest on Wednesday, impacting southern parts of the UK.”
“While not all areas within the warning zone will necessarily see snow, there is a possibility of 2-5 cm accumulating in some regions. It remains uncertain whether this system will directly affect the UK or pass to the south, but we are monitoring closely. Forecast updates and warnings may be revised, so the public should stay alert.”
For the latest updates, stay tuned to official Met Office forecasts and advisories.
