UPDATE: The Met Office has just issued an urgent warning for the UK as temperatures are set to drop significantly, bringing wintry hazards throughout January 2026. A bitterly cold wind is already affecting many regions, with frost and fog expected to increase, particularly at night.
In its latest forecast, the Met Office confirms that the cold snap will persist into the New Year. As the winds ease, the agency warns residents to prepare for a higher risk of frost and fog. The shift in weather patterns indicates that cold air will linger, leading to potential snowfall in January, which is more likely than in December.
The Met Office elaborated: “High pressure will dominate the UK weather, resulting in dry conditions. However, as the year turns, this high pressure may shift, increasing the chance of rain and wintry hazards.”
Notably, the forecast highlights the potential for more snow this January, with data showing that snow is more likely to settle during this month than in December. According to the Met Office, snow typically lies on the ground for an average of 3.3 days in January compared to just 3 days in December.
Residents across the UK are advised to stay updated with the Met Office’s changing forecasts, as they can significantly impact daily life. Currently, there are no snow predictions for Merseyside, but the situation could evolve rapidly.
Last year, on January 1, 2025, a significant three-day snow warning was issued for most of England, highlighting the unpredictability of winter weather. While there is currently no expectation of a “Beast from the East,” the brisk easterly winds are contributing to the cold conditions felt across the country.
Looking ahead, the Met Office indicates that from January 9 to January 23, the UK may experience even more wintry hazards. The outlook suggests high pressure will initially remain, but more unsettled weather could develop later in the month, leading to snow and colder temperatures.
As the winter season continues, the Met Office urges everyone to stay vigilant and prepare for possible disruptions due to wintry conditions. With temperatures expected to remain below average, it is crucial for the public to take necessary precautions.
Stay tuned for further updates as this situation develops, and be sure to monitor the Met Office for the latest information on weather conditions in your area.
