The UK is set for another blast of wintry weather as the Met Office warns of snow, ice, and a rare phenomenon—freezing rain—posing significant risks to travel and public safety. At the same time, health authorities are sounding the alarm about the potentially fatal dangers to vulnerable people as temperatures plummet.
Yellow weather warnings for snow and ice have been issued across northeastern England, covering areas from Newcastle to Bradford, with the warning in force from 6am to 2pm on Saturday. Commuters have been urged to take extra care while travelling as roads and pavements are expected to become dangerously slippery.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has also issued a cold weather alert for North East England, Yorkshire, and the Humber, warning that the prolonged drop in temperature could have serious health consequences, particularly for the elderly, young children, and those with existing health conditions. The agency has advised people to take extra precautions, including keeping their homes warm and checking in on vulnerable neighbours.
One of the biggest concerns is freezing rain, a rare but highly dangerous weather phenomenon that occurs when rain falls onto surfaces that are below freezing, instantly turning to ice. This can create a virtually invisible layer of ice, making roads and pavements treacherous and increasing the risk of accidents. The Met Office has warned that even a light coating of freezing rain can have severe consequences for transport and public safety.
Met Office chief meteorologist Matthew Lehnert has predicted that between 2 to 5cm of snow could accumulate over higher ground, particularly in areas such as the Cheviots and North York Moors, with localised snowfall possible even at lower levels. In addition to the wintry conditions in the north, southern Wales and parts of southwestern England are also expected to experience heavy rain, making for a wet and unpleasant weekend.
The latest spell of cold weather comes after an extended period of sub-zero temperatures across the UK, further straining already pressured health and social care services. The UKHSA has warned that the combination of freezing temperatures, snow, and ice could lead to an increase in accidents and health issues, particularly among those with respiratory conditions or mobility problems. Even a slight drop in temperature can have serious consequences for those most at risk, officials have warned.
Residents are being urged to take precautions to stay safe, including avoiding unnecessary travel where possible, wearing warm layers, and ensuring that their homes are adequately heated. Authorities are also advising people to be particularly cautious on roads and pavements, as freezing rain could create unexpected hazards. Those who need to travel have been advised to allow extra time for their journeys and to check for updates on weather and transport conditions before setting out.
With temperatures set to remain low and wintry weather likely to continue into next week, people across the UK are being warned to prepare for further disruptions. The Met Office is monitoring the situation closely and has urged the public to stay informed about any further warnings or updates.
