Arctic Blast Brings Snow and Ice Warnings Across the UK
Published 13 February 2026
Highlights
- The Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings for ice and snow across the UK, affecting regions from Northern Ireland to the East of England and Devon and Cornwall.
- An Arctic blast is bringing freezing temperatures, with lows reaching -4C, and causing hazardous travel conditions due to icy roads and pavements.
- The UK's Health Security Agency has issued cold weather alerts, warning of increased health risks for vulnerable populations in northern England and the Midlands.
- Flood warnings remain in effect in parts of England and Wales, with significant rainfall recorded in the early days of 2026.
- National Highways has closed parts of the A66 due to heavy snowfall, advising travelers to plan alternative routes.
The UK is bracing for a severe Arctic blast this weekend, with the Met Office issuing yellow weather warnings for snow and ice across much of the country. The warnings, which span from Northern Ireland to the East of England, Devon, and Cornwall, are in effect from Friday evening through Saturday morning, with further alerts extending into Sunday.
Widespread Weather Alerts
Forecasters predict that the Arctic air mass will bring freezing temperatures, with lows reaching -4C in some areas. The Met Office has cautioned that untreated roads and pavements could become treacherous, leading to potential travel disruptions and an increased risk of injuries from slips and falls. In Northern Ireland, the alert is active from 8:00 PM on Friday until 10:00 AM on Saturday, while similar warnings are in place across the Republic of Ireland.
Health and Safety Concerns
The UK's Health Security Agency has issued yellow alerts for cold weather, highlighting the potential health risks for vulnerable populations in northern England and the Midlands. These alerts, effective from Friday morning until Monday, emphasize the increased demand on healthcare services and the heightened risk to life for those most susceptible to cold conditions.
Travel Disruptions and Flood Warnings
Travelers are advised to exercise caution, with National Highways closing parts of the A66 due to concentrated snowfall. The agency is working to clear and treat affected roads, but advises road users to consider alternative routes. Meanwhile, flood warnings remain in place for parts of England and Wales, following a notably wet start to 2026. The Met Office reports that some regions have experienced up to 40 consecutive days of rain.
What this might mean
As the Arctic blast continues to impact the UK, authorities are urging the public to stay informed about weather updates and travel advisories. The ongoing cold weather alerts could lead to increased pressure on healthcare services, particularly in regions with vulnerable populations. Experts suggest that the frequency of such extreme weather events may rise due to climate change, necessitating improved infrastructure and preparedness measures. In the short term, travelers should remain vigilant and plan their journeys carefully to avoid hazardous conditions.
