The United Kingdom is under widespread yellow weather warnings for ice and snow, with Storm Goretti set to bring heavy snowfall and strong winds starting this week. Parts of Scotland could see up to 10 centimeters of snow today, leading to school closures and travel disruptions across the nation in early 2026.
Current Weather Warnings Across the UK
Yellow ice warnings cover much of England, Wales, and southern Scotland until late morning today. In northern Scotland, a snow and ice alert lasts until midnight, with forecasts predicting up to 10 centimeters of accumulation in higher areas.
These alerts come from the Met Office, highlighting risks of slips, falls, and icy roads. Northern Ireland also faces an ice warning until mid morning. The cold snap has already dropped temperatures to minus 12.5 degrees Celsius in some spots, the lowest this winter.
A new yellow snow warning starts Thursday evening for central and southern England and Wales, expecting up to 20 centimeters in places. Winds could reach 70 miles per hour along coasts in southwest England.
Storm Goretti Drives the Wintry Blast
Storm Goretti, the first named storm of 2026, is approaching from the Atlantic and fueling this Arctic chill. It brings a mix of snow, sleet, and hail, worsening conditions through Friday.
Experts say this deep low pressure system will cause a multi hazard event, including heavy rain in southern areas after the snow. The storm follows a pattern of cold air from the north, similar to recent winters that disrupted daily life.
In Scotland, rural spots might see power cuts and isolated communities due to drifting snow. Forecasters warn of blizzards in exposed areas, making travel hazardous.
This event ties into broader climate trends, where polar air outbreaks have increased in frequency over the past decade, leading to more severe winter storms.
Widespread Disruptions to Schools and Travel
Over a thousand schools closed yesterday across the UK due to snow and freezing temperatures, with many in Scotland shutting again today. Officials expect more announcements as conditions persist.
Train services, including major lines like Eurostar and those in the north, face delays and cancellations. Roads are treacherous, with reports of vehicles stuck in snowdrifts, echoing incidents from past storms like Gerrit in 2023.
Air travel could see issues, especially in northern airports. Residents in affected areas should prepare for longer journey times and possible power outages.
- School closures: Hundreds in Scotland alone, impacting thousands of students.
- Travel advice: Avoid non essential trips, check updates from transport providers.
- Health alerts: An amber cold health warning covers England until the weekend, urging vulnerable people to stay warm.
Forecast and What to Expect Next
The cold weather continues through the week, with Thursday and Friday as peak days for Storm Goretti’s impact. Southern regions might shift from snow to heavy rain, raising flood risks.
Temperatures could dip to minus 6 degrees Celsius in rural Scotland tonight. By the weekend, milder air might arrive, but not before potential blizzards in the north.
Long term outlooks suggest this winter could see more such events, based on patterns from the last few years. Meteorologists are monitoring for any escalation to amber or red warnings.
| Region | Warning Type | Duration | Expected Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northern Scotland | Snow and Ice | Until 23:59 GMT today | Up to 10cm snow, travel chaos |
| England and Wales | Ice | Until 10:00 GMT today | Slips, falls, icy roads |
| Southern England and Wales | Snow | Thursday 18:00 GMT to Friday midday | Up to 20cm snow, disruptions |
| Southwest England | Wind | Thursday 15:00 GMT to midnight | Gusts up to 70mph, coastal issues |
| Northern Ireland | Ice | Until 11:00 GMT today | Freezing surfaces, minor delays |
Safety Tips for Residents
People should dress in layers, keep emergency kits in cars, and check on elderly neighbors during this freeze. Health services warn of increased risks for heart issues and respiratory problems in the cold.
To avoid injuries, clear paths of ice and use salt or sand on driveways. For drivers, slow down and maintain distance on slippery roads.
Communities have shown resilience in past winters, like during the 2021 heavy snow in Scotland that blanketed cities like Aberdeen.
As this storm unfolds, stay informed through official channels and share your experiences. How has the weather affected you? Comment below and spread the word to help others prepare.
