Overview
- Amber snow warnings cover parts of northern and eastern Scotland from noon Friday to noon Saturday, with forecasts of up to 40cm on higher ground and a risk of blizzards, stranded vehicles and power cuts.
- Yellow warnings for snow and ice are in force across large areas of England, Wales and Northern Ireland on Friday morning, with 1–5cm possible in places and snowfall reported in London.
- The Met Office says Arctic air will keep temperatures below freezing for many and the cold snap is likely to persist into next week, after an observed low of -6.2C in Hurn following -9.6C at Braemar earlier.
- Transport bodies and police advise checking conditions, allowing extra time and postponing non‑essential travel as rail and air delays are likely and the AA expects about 20.7 million car journeys today.
- Local councils and charities are supporting vulnerable residents with warm spaces, heating advice and supplies, including initiatives reported in Colchester.