Weather UK Christmas forecast: Challenging travel conditions expected today as Met Office says temperatures to plunge

ACCORDING to the forecasters, strong gusts on Boxing Day could bring challenging travel conditions across upland areas – so make sure you drive carefully.

There has also been a warning of blizzard-like conditions above 300-400 metre elevation.

Today will also be “bitingly” cold as strong winds set in – despite highs of 6C in Scotland, 7C in Northern Ireland, 9C in Wales and 11C in England.

And weather maps show yet more snow is on the way from December 27, meaning a truly wintry festive period.

Half an inch will fall on Monday, rising to three on December 29 and 2.5 through to New Year’s Eve.

Temperatures are also forecast to plunge as low as a freezing -2C in parts of the north and east of England between today and 28 December.

Read our weather live blog for the latest news and forecasts

  • Milica Cosic

    Challenging travel conditions today

    According to the forecasters, strong gusts on Boxing Day could bring challenging travel conditions across upland areas.

    There has also been a warning of blizzard-like conditions above 300-400 metre elevation.

    Temperatures are forecast to plunge as low as a freezing -2C in parts of the north and east of England between Christmas Day and December 28.

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    Warning of huge storm to lash Britain TODAY

    The Boxing Day weather will come as a washout for many after thousands woke up to a white Christmas today.

    Tony Zartman, Accuweather meteorologist, said the southern coast of England could be hit by more stormy conditions from tomorrow.

    He told Express.co.uk: “A storm will pass by to the south across France on Boxing Day.

    "This may bring some rain as far north as the southern coast of England.

    “But, much of the remainder of England and Wales are expected to be dry at this point.”

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    Explained: Claiming compensation if gas or electricity is cut off because of snow

    Households who have power cut off due to the snow could be due compensation from firms.

    How much you can claim depends on how long the disruption lasts – and how severe the weather is.

    According to Citizens Advice, if a power cut is caused by bad weather, you’ll be entitled to £70 compensation if you’re without power for 24 hours, with another £70 paid for each of the following 12 hours up to a maximum cap of £700.

    In really bad weather,  the time-limit is 48 hours before compensation kicks-in  – a severe storm is defined by regulator Ofgem as causing more than 12 times the average daily number of faults.

    Energy expert and ex-British Gas worker Lynsey Jones shares her tips for savings on bills.

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    Up to £25 a week thanks to cold weather payments

    If temperatures plummet below zero that could trigger a payment of £25 automatically.

    Cold weather payments are made if it hits freezing between November 1 and March 31, to help you pay for the increased energy costs.

    The temperature will have to stay that low for seven consecutive days before the cash is handed out.

    So far the payment has not been triggered anywhere because the weather hasn’t gotten that cold – yet.

    There’s still time for it to happen as the scheme doesn’t close for another month – it could be more likely that it will happen in January or early February though.

    You can check if the payment applies to you using the government’s postcode checker any time between now and the spring.

    You must already be getting certain benefits to qualify, including pension credit, income support, jobseeker’s allowance, income-related employment and support allowance, and Universal Credit.

    You won’t qualify if you are in a care home or subject to immigration control.

    You don’t need to apply for the extra payment – it’s paid automatically into your bank or building society account within 14 days of the cold spell ending.

  • Milica Cosic

    Boxing Day weather forecast

    A cloudy start for most tomorrow with rain and drizzle for some, turning wintry over higher ground, especially in Scotland.

    Remaining dull for most in the afternoon.

    A drier afternoon to the south with bright spells for south-western England.

    Gentle easterly winds, stronger for Scotland

  • Milica Cosic

    UK weather outlook for Monday and Tuesday

    A largely dry but dull, misty day on Monday. Some early morning showers for Scotland with the odd spots of drizzle throughout the day for southern England. Light winds.

    Persistent rain for much of northern England, Northern Ireland and Scotland on Tuesday. Bright spells for Wales and the south-west.

  • Milica Cosic

    Snow today, snow tomorrow

    BRITS, brace yourselves as the Met Office has issued warnings for ice and a -2C chill this Christmas.

    Temperatures are forecast to plunge as low as a freezing -2C in parts of the north and east of England between Christmas Day and December 28.

    Two yellow snow warnings has been issued for some upland areas starting from midnight Sunday to midday.

    Boxing Day will be "bitingly" cold as strong winds set in – despite highs of 6C in Scotland, 7C in Northern Ireland, 9C in Wales and 11C in England.

    The Met Office has said that strong gusts on Boxing Day could bring challenging travel conditions across upland areas, so be careful if you need to drive.

    Weather maps show also shows more snow is on the way from December 27, meaning a truly wintry festive period. It will continue until January 2 when warmer air will turn snowfall into rain.

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    Why won't my car start in the cold?

    Not unlike humans needing layers of clothes to brave low temperatures, cars also need a little preparation to get going.

    When cars won't start, it's often because their engine oil has thickened in the cold, which increases friction and makes it harder for the starter motor to spin the engine.

    Cold, damp weather can sometimes play havoc on batteries as vehicle electrical systems have to work a lot harder.

    The RAC says the majority of their winter call-outs are to do with car batteries.

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    28th December to 6th January outlook

    This period remains somewhat uncertain in detail, but generally sees a split between colder air to the north and milder air to the south.

    Looking to remain unsettled with further spells of rain for most at first. To the south, mild, unsettled weather, with rain and occasional strong winds.

    To the north, more settled conditions with brighter spells and winds slowly easing to lead to perhaps some frost or ice.

    Becoming very mild across all areas in time. Along the boundary, potential for significant weather with snow likely at times, in addition to the associated wintry hazards.

    It will be colder than average heading into January with any unsettled, milder spells most likely for the west and south.

  • Milica Cosic

    Should I leave my car running to warm it up?

    Avoid doing this if you can.

    Leaving your car engine going before you start driving doesn’t actually help the engine, but just ramps up your fuel use and emissions.

    Cars older than 20 years do need warming up to get going in the cold weather.

    But most modern engines adjust their temperature accordingly, so car experts say you shouldn’t leave your car running for more than 30 seconds before driving.

  • Milica Cosic

    An ‘unsettled’ period

    Frank Saunders, a chief meteorologist, said: “The Christmas period will be unsettled for much of the UK this year.

    “Many will see wet and cloudy conditions as mild air dominates the south and west.

    “This contrasts with the cold air in the northeast, which brings the chance of some snow, most likely over the Pennines and the southern half of Scotland, and is perhaps a little more likely into the early part of Boxing Day.

    “Added to the mix is a strong easterly wind, especially in northern areas, which will make it feel particularly cold.”

  • Milica Cosic

    Long range forecast for Dec 28 – Jan 6

    This period remains somewhat uncertain in detail, but generally sees a split between colder air to the north and milder air to the south.

    Looking to remain unsettled with further spells of rain for most at first.

    To the south, mild, unsettled weather, with rain and occasional strong winds. To the north, more settled conditions with brighter spells and winds slowly easing to lead to perhaps some frost or ice. Becoming very mild across all areas in time.

    Along the boundary, potential for significant weather with snow likely at times, in addition to the associated wintry hazards.

    Becoming colder than average heading into January with any unsettled, milder spells most likely for the west and south.

  • Milica Cosic

    Boxing Day could bring challenging travel conditions 

    Tomorrow, a yellow weather forecast has been slapped on parts of northern England and Scotland for snow with winds of up to 45mph in places.

    The Met Office has said that strong gusts on Boxing Day could bring challenging travel conditions across upland areas.

    There has also been a warning of blizzard-like conditions above 300-400 metre elevation.

    Temperatures are forecast to plunge as low as a freezing -2C in parts of the north and east of England between Christmas Day and December 28.

  • Milica Cosic

    Boxing Day weather forecast

    A cloudy start for most tomorrow with rain and drizzle for some, turning wintry over higher ground, especially in Scotland.

    Remaining dull for most in the afternoon.

    A drier afternoon to the south with bright spells for south-western England.

    Gentle easterly winds, stronger for Scotland

  • Milica Cosic

    Four ways you’re breaking the law driving in snow

    With snow expected for Christmas, these tips will help you avoid a penalty as in some cases you could be met with a fine worth up to £1,000.

    1. Defrosting your car – the lazy way
    2. Driving with snow still on the roof
    3. Not cleaning every window or your lights
    4. Not de-icing your license plate

    Read the article in full here.

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    Next week to see cold and unsettled weather

    By Tuesday night, the temperatures will drop to a chilly 1C for most, with slightly warmer weather in the south.

    In Scotland, the mercury is expected to dip below zero, reaching -1 in Loch Rannoch – and it could dive to -5C in some parts on Christmas Day.

    On the forecast for the week ahead, the Met Office said Sunday’s foggy weather will clear for a cloudy but brighter Monday.

    Skies will clear into Tuesday and after a frosty start, it will be bright and sunny – and is “likely to be the best day of the week”.

    But Wednesday will bring increasingly unsettled weather.

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    When will Winter be over?

    When people are looking for the Winter season to be officially over, they can look forward to the Spring Equinox, which will mark the start of the Spring season.

    The Summer Solstice will then signify that the Spring time has come to an end and hot and sunny Summer weather will be present until the next seasonal change.

    Remembering the seasonal equinoxes and solstices are the key to knowing which time of year you are in.

    Although a lot of territories experience differing weather conditions prior to the solstices and equinoxes, the dates are significant to know the official starts of the four seasons.

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    The checklist: A safe drive home for Xmas

    StressFreeCarRental.com are providing motorists with their Christmas road trip checklist for those looking to pack up their cars and hit the roads this winter.

    A few simple checks will help significantly to help drivers relax and enjoy the Christmas songs on their journey.

    • Presents – Most importantly of all, drivers should ensure they have all of their presents and cards on board before setting off on their festive journey!
    • Emergency kit – On dark wintery nights, driving conditions can change drastically and leave drivers in a situation they were not prepared for
    • Lights – As the days get shorter, ensuring all vehicle lights are functioning properly is not only essential but also a legal requirement. 
    • Tyres – Snow, sleet, rain and frost can all have a huge impact on the terrain, meaning tyre upkeep is more important than ever in the winter months.
    • Windscreen – Winter weather can be unpredictable and having full visibility can prevent any potential dangers on the road.
    • Antifreeze – It is crucial when topping up your antifreeze that the engine has fully cooled down, as the release of pressurised water can cause serious injury

    Four ways you’re breaking the law driving in snow

    With snow expected for Christmas, these tips will help you avoid a penalty as in some cases you could be met with a fine worth up to £1,000.

    1. Defrosting your car – the lazy way
    2. Driving with snow still on the roof
    3. Not cleaning every window or your lights
    4. Not de-icing your license plate

    Read the article in full here.

    Xmas day ‘snowbomb’ set to dump FOOT of snow

    BRITS are bracing for a Christmas Day “snowbomb” as a FOOT of the white stuff could hit parts of the country with flurries expected across south England.

    Forecasters are warning of “unsettled weather” over the festive period as the Met Office confirmed some areas could see snow fall.

    But according to one forecaster, Brian Gaze of The Weather Outlook, Christmas Day morning could see up to a foot of snow in parts of Scotland with lighter coverings in East Anglia and the Midlands.

    He says it may well be a very White Christmas after all, and it’ll be an “all-time classic” for snow fans.

    Avoid these when driving in the snow and ice

    1. If you come across black ice, many drivers will hit the brakes and steer into a skid as they start to lose control – but that can be a dangerous move for in-experienced drivers. Instead, slowly take your foot off the accelerator and straighten up as your vehicle rides it out.
    2. Accelerating and braking too quickly is a recipe for disaster in icy conditions. Be sure to take it slow when turning and avoid any overtaking.
    3. It might seem urgent at the time, but it’s important not to take unnecessary journeys when it’s icy.
    4. If you do need to go somewhere, don’t take an unfamiliar route as road signs are likely to be covered in snow and phone reception could be limited.
    5. Some drivers rely on pouring boiling water over a frozen windscreen to remove ice, but it’s more than likely to crack the glass. Investing in a decent ice scrapper or de-ice spray can work just as well and will protect your windscreen.
    6. Don’t take any shortcuts and stay off rural roads as these might not have been cleared, and are often challenging even in warm weather. Stick to main roads as much as possible.
    7. Finally, don’t forget to top up your oil, fuel and screen-wash before every winter trip.
    • Milica Cosic

      Heavy snow will hit south coast on December 27

      Meteorologists earlier predicted snow could arrive as early as Friday in the South, while the Met Office warned blizzards could be in store for Scotland.

      The Met said conditions will be mild on Thursday before rain sets in, but don't let that dampen your spirits.

      "Colder and clearer" conditions are set to take hold on December 25, with northern parts of the country most likely to see snow.

      Meanwhile, the Weather Outlook suggest "heavy snow" will hit the south coast on December 27.

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      Odds slashed on coldest January

      Leading bookmaker Coral has cut the odds on this January being the coldest since records began to just 2-1 (from 5-1) as forecasters warn of an end to the mild winter temperatures.

      “We have enjoyed some very mild temperatures through December but the outlook for January looks a lot colder and we have slashed the odds on next month being the coldest first month of the year we have ever had,” said Coral’s Harry Aitkenhead.

      Coral make Edinburgh the favourite for snow on Christmas Day, at odds of 3-1, with Newcastle the most likely of the English cities at 7-2 according to the odds.

      Harry also said: “We are offering odds on all major UK cities for any punters dreaming of a White Christmas, with Edinburgh the most likely according to our odds”.

    • Milica Cosic

      Should I leave my car running to warm it up?

      Avoid doing this if you can.

      Leaving your car engine going before you start driving doesn’t actually help the engine, but just ramps up your fuel use and emissions.

      Cars older than 20 years do need warming up to get going in the cold weather.

      But most modern engines adjust their temperature accordingly, so car experts say you shouldn’t leave your car running for more than 30 seconds before driving.

    • Milica Cosic

      Can I still have the Covid booster if I have a cold?

      The short answer is yes.

      If you are certain it is not Covid you are suffering with and you are well enough to leave home, you can get your third shot with confidence.

      It might make you feel a bit rougher than if you weren’t ill, but overall it’s perfectly safe – and you can emerge from your sickly funk safe in the knowledge you are protected against coronavirus.

      A cold shouldn’t have an effect on your body’s ability to build an immune response to the flu, even though it is fighting an illness.

      NHS guidance says you should still attend your appointment even if you have a mild illness, including a common cold.

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