New Year Partygoers Advised to Dress Warmly with Snow Forecast Across the UK
Weather experts are reporting a chilly beginning to the new year, with snowfall expected throughout a lot of the UK. Celebrants are advised to bundle up as near-freezing temperatures are expected for New Year's Eve.
Hogmanay Plans Go Ahead In Spite of Alerts
Edinburgh's famous Hogmanay events are planned to take place, unlike last year's cancellation. This comes despite yellow warnings for snow across northern Scotland.
"An icy New Year's Eve evening for those out celebrating, so warmer clothes will be needed," said the weather service.
Fireworks Under Clear but Frosty Skies
Elsewhere in the UK, the weather is set to be ideal for fireworks displays, with no rain and clear skies. Temperatures are expected to be chilly, so warm wraps vital, said forecasters.
In more northern areas, conditions will be more overcast, but this is not expected to affect visibility for watching fireworks. "It won't be low cloud, mist or murk, so you ought to be able to see fireworks, just not stars," added one forecaster.
Extensive Weather Alerts for Friday
As we enter Friday, weather warnings have been issued for Northern Ireland and from Wales, over the north-west, the West Midlands and through to London and most of the south-east of England.
- Transport is expected to be affected.
- People should to plan for delays for travel on the road.
- Hold-ups and call-offs are anticipated on public transport.
The Mercury Forecast to Plummet Further
Going into the new year, it will be "cold regardless of where you are," said forecaster Simon Partridge. Temperatures are expected to plummet as snowfall and high winds are likely to hit the north of the country.
Approximately 10cm of snow is expected to have accumulated in some areas by Friday morning, potentially hitting 30cm on the most elevated routes and peaks.
Medical Warnings Activated
Meanwhile, amber cold health alerts have been issued for the north-east and north-west of England. These are set to stay active until noon on 5 January, with the mercury forecast to fall to between 3C and 5C.
Authorities said this indicated the weather was likely to lead to significant impacts across health and social care services. This encompasses a likely increase in the mortality rate among those with health conditions or those aged 65 or over.
The advice for all is clear: to see the new year in security, dressing for the cold is utterly essential.