New Year's Partygoers Advised to Wrap Up Warm with Snow Expected Across the UK
Weather experts have indicated an icy commencement to the new year, with snow expected throughout a lot of the UK. Celebrants are being urged to bundle up as near-freezing temperatures are expected for New Year's Eve.
Festive Celebrations Go Ahead Despite Warnings
The Scottish capital's iconic Hogmanay festivities are expected to take place, unlike last year's postponement. This comes despite advisories for snow across northern Scotland.
"A cold New Year's Eve evening for those partying, so additional clothing will be essential," said the national forecaster.
Fireworks Under Mostly Clear but Frosty Skies
Elsewhere in the UK, the weather is set to be suited to fireworks shows, with no rain and clear skies. Readings are expected to be cold, meaning warm wraps vital, according to forecasters.
In more northern areas, conditions will be more overcast, but this is not expected to hamper visibility for viewing fireworks. "It won't be low cloud, mist or murk, so you will likely be able to see fireworks, just not stars," added one forecaster.
Broad Weather Alerts for Friday
As we enter Friday, weather warnings are in place for Northern Ireland and extending from Wales, through the north-west, the West Midlands and through to London and most of the south-east of England.
- Travel is expected to be affected.
- Travelers have been urged to leave additional time for travel on the road.
- Hold-ups and call-offs are likely on public transport.
Temperatures Expected to Plummet Further
Going into the new year, it will be "cold regardless of where you are," commented forecaster Simon Partridge. Conditions are forecast to fall even more as snowfall and high winds are expected to affect the north of the country.
About 10cm of snow is forecast to have accumulated in some areas by Friday morning, reaching up to 30cm on the top roads and uplands.
Medical Warnings Activated
At the same time, serious cold weather health warnings have been activated for the north-east and north-west of England. These are set to continue until noon on 5 January, with readings forecast to fall to between 3C and 5C.
Officials said this signified the weather was likely to trigger major effects across the NHS and care systems. This includes a likely increase in the mortality rate among those with health conditions or those 65 and older.
The guidance for all is clear: to celebrate the new year in security, wrapping up warm is utterly key.