Weather forecasters have issued warnings for severe cold and “disruptive snow” across the UK following an Arctic blast that marked the coldest night of the season.
The Met Office recorded temperatures as low as -7.8°C at Tulloch Bridge in the Scottish Highlands, with conditions set to worsen as the week progresses.
For many, Monday morning was a wake-up call as frost-covered windshields marked the first real signs of winter.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued an amber cold weather alert, emphasizing potential risks for vulnerable groups, particularly the elderly.
The charity Age UK echoed concerns, urging preparedness to mitigate health risks.
The Met Office predicts up to 20cm of snow in areas above 300 meters, with snowfall likely at lower levels in parts of Yorkshire and Derbyshire, where accumulations of 5-10cm could cause significant disruption.
Yellow warnings for snow, ice, and sleet are in effect from Northumberland and Cumbria to north Wales and the Midlands, with additional advisories for Northern Ireland and northern Scotland.
Forecasters warn of hazardous travel conditions, power outages, and public transport delays.
Be winter-ready: Prepare for snow, frost, and freezing commutes across the UK.Drivers are urged to prepare for challenging journeys by packing essentials such as warm clothing, food, water, a blanket, and de-icing tools.
In response to the forecast, Merseyrail has activated its cold weather plan, running early service checks to assess track conditions.
Nicola Maxey from the Met Office stated that the UK will experience temperatures well below seasonal averages this week.
In London, temperatures could dip to -2°C by Friday, with Birmingham forecasted to hit -4°C and northern regions plunging to -7°C.
Frosty nights and icy roads are expected nationwide, with forecasters attributing the conditions to an Arctic maritime air mass sweeping southward.
As the UK braces for its “first taste of winter,” preparedness remains crucial.
Households are advised to keep an eye on weather updates and take necessary precautions to stay safe during the cold snap.