Snow Grips UK as Winter Weather Shuts Schools and Disrupts Travel
Heavy snow, ice and freezing temperatures have caused widespread disruption across the UK as millions return to work and school after the Christmas break.
Scotland
Large parts of Scotland have been hit hardest, with blizzard conditions forecast and amber weather warnings in place across areas including Aberdeenshire, the Cairngorms, Orkney and Shetland. Some communities have already seen more than 40cm of snow, with up to another 30cm possible in places, raising concerns that rural areas could be cut off.
Hundreds of schools across northern Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have closed, including all schools in Aberdeenshire and dozens in Moray. In Shetland, Orkney and the Western Isles, schools and nurseries remain shut until further notice.
Travel disruption has been severe. Several Scottish airports, including Sumburgh and Kirkwall, are closed, while dozens of flights from Aberdeen have been cancelled. In England, Liverpool John Lennon Airport said flights were grounded “due to the wintry weather conditions”, as crews worked to clear snow and ice. Rail services have also been badly affected, with major ScotRail routes suspended and no LNER trains running north of Edinburgh. Network Rail Scotland reported snow drifts as deep as 1.2m on some lines.
England, Wales and Northern Ireland
Across England, Wales and Northern Ireland, yellow warnings for snow and ice are in force, bringing hazardous driving conditions and resulting in stranded motorists and suspended bus services. Temperatures plunged overnight, with parts of England and Wales recording their coldest night of the winter so far, dipping close to -11C.
The Met Office warned that the icy conditions could continue into the week, with a mix of snow, sleet and rain expected as milder air begins to push north. Chief meteorologist Matthew Lehnert said: “Elsewhere in the UK, snow showers, ice and frost are expected at times, but milder air will make attempts to spread eastward from Tuesday.”
Health officials have also raised concerns. The UK Health Security Agency has issued amber cold weather alerts across England, warning the prolonged cold could put extra strain on hospitals and social care services, particularly affecting older people and those with existing health conditions.
With more unsettled weather and strong winds possible later in the week, authorities are urging people to check travel advice, take extra care on icy surfaces and look out for vulnerable neighbours as the cold snap continues.
