London, United Kingdom
News Desk | Weather
London and parts of southern England were hit by disruptive snowfall on New Year’s Day after the UK Met Office issued an amber warning for snow, citing a high likelihood of travel disruption, power outages, and difficult driving conditions. The warning took effect early Wednesday as a cold Arctic air mass moved across the capital, bringing prolonged periods of snow and ice.
The Met Office said several centimeters of snow were expected to settle across Greater London and surrounding counties, with heavier accumulations possible on higher ground. Forecasters warned that untreated roads could become hazardous and that rail and flight delays were likely during the morning and evening travel periods.
According to BBC News, transport authorities advised commuters to check services before travelling as snow and freezing temperatures affected rail lines, bus routes, and major roadways across the capital. London airports reported delays and cancellations as crews worked to clear runways and de-ice aircraft.
Emergency services and local councils said gritting teams had been deployed overnight, prioritizing main roads, bus routes, and access to hospitals. The Met Office noted that temperatures were expected to remain below average for early January, increasing the risk of ice as snowfall eased later in the day.
Sky News reported that the amber warning reflects the potential for significant impacts rather than certainty, urging residents to take precautions, avoid unnecessary travel, and stay informed as conditions evolve. The warning is due to remain in place into Thursday, with further updates expected.
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