New Year's Partygoers Told to Dress Warmly with Snow Expected Throughout the UK
Weather experts are saying a chilly start to the new year, with wintry precipitation expected throughout a lot of the UK. Celebrants are advised to wrap up as bitterly cold temperatures are expected for New Year's Eve.
Hogmanay Celebrations Proceed Amid Alerts
Edinburgh's iconic Hogmanay festivities are planned to take place, following last year's calling-off. This is in spite of weather alerts for snow in northern Scotland.
"An icy New Year's Eve evening for those partying, so additional clothing will be needed," stated the Met Office.
Displays Under Open but Frosty Skies
Elsewhere in the UK, the weather is set to be suited to fireworks shows, with dry conditions and clear skies. Temperatures are due to be cold, meaning warm wraps a necessity, according to forecasters.
To the north, conditions will be more overcast, but this is not anticipated to impact visibility for watching fireworks. "We are not looking at low cloud, mist or murk, so you ought to be able to see fireworks, just not stars," added one forecaster.
Extensive Weather Alerts for New Year's Day
Moving into Friday, snow alerts have been issued for Northern Ireland and extending from Wales, across parts of the north-west, the West Midlands and through to London and most of the south-east of England.
- Transport is anticipated to be disrupted.
- Travelers have been urged to plan for delays for journeys on the road.
- Disruptions and cancellations are anticipated on the transport network.
Readings Forecast to Drop Even More
Going into the new year, it will be "cold regardless of where you are," said forecaster Simon Partridge. Conditions are set to drop further as wintry showers and strong winds are predicted to hit the north of the country.
About 10cm of snow could accumulate to have settled in some areas by Friday morning, with up to 30cm on the top roads and uplands.
Medical Warnings Issued
At the same time, serious cold weather health warnings have been issued for the north-east and north-west of England. These are set to remain in place until noon on 5 January, with the mercury likely to fall to between 3C and 5C.
Officials explained this indicated the weather could to lead to major effects across the NHS and care systems. This includes a expected uptick in the mortality rate among the elderly or unwell or those 65 and older.
The advice for all is clear: to see the new year in safely, dressing for the cold is absolutely paramount.
