The UK is gearing up for a rare and potentially hazardous bout of freezing rain, set to sweep across the country in the coming days. The Met Office has issued warnings, cautioning that this unusual weather event could lead to significant disruption, particularly for travel and aviation. The most severe conditions are expected over the weekend and into the start of next week.
Freezing rain occurs when raindrops fall through a layer of cold air just above the surface, freezing instantly upon contact with roads, pavements, and other exposed surfaces. This can quickly turn streets and footpaths into treacherous ice rinks, while the weight of accumulating ice has the potential to snap tree branches and even bring down power lines. Though more common in places like North America—where it is often referred to as an ‘ice storm’—this phenomenon is much rarer in the UK.
Met Office meteorologist Alex Burkill explained that the freezing rain is due to a milder air mass moving in above much colder air at ground level, creating the perfect conditions for ice to form. The resulting icy surfaces could pose serious risks to both pedestrians and motorists.
Concerns are mounting as the timing coincides with the half-term holidays, with schools breaking up on Monday and airports expecting an influx of travellers. Aviation experts warn that freezing rain is particularly dangerous for aircraft, and additional precautions may be necessary at major UK airports. Meanwhile, the Met Office has also cautioned that freezing rain could be accompanied by sleet and snow at times, depending on how the system develops. Further weather warnings may be issued closer to the time.
Adding to the wintery chill, a biting easterly wind is set to make conditions feel even colder. ‘Feels-like’ temperatures could plummet as low as -6°C in parts of County Durham and North Yorkshire by Sunday and Monday, while Aberdeenshire could experience lows of -5°C. Despite this, actual air temperatures won’t be as extreme, with London and the South East expecting highs of around 5°C on Sunday.
The worst of the freezing rain is expected to hit northern England, particularly the North East, where widespread disruption is likely. Forecasters predict that icy conditions may persist well into next week, with little relief in sight for affected regions. The Met Office is urging the public to take extra care, warning that the thin glaze of ice can make walking and driving highly dangerous.
With Britain bracing for this rare and hazardous weather event, authorities are advising people to stay updated with the latest forecasts and take necessary precautions to stay safe.
