Forecasters have indicated an icy start to the new year, with snowfall anticipated over large parts of the UK. Revelers have been told to bundle up as sub-zero temperatures are expected for New Year's Eve.
The Scottish capital's renowned Hogmanay festivities are planned to go ahead, following last year's cancellation. This comes despite advisories for snow in northern Scotland.
"A chilly New Year's Eve evening for those who are celebrating, so additional clothing will be essential," noted the weather service.
Elsewhere in the UK, the weather is expected to be ideal for fireworks celebrations, with dry conditions and open skies. The mercury are expected to be low, meaning additional clothing a necessity, said forecasters.
To the north, conditions will be more overcast, but this is not anticipated to impact visibility for watching fireworks. "There is no expectation of low cloud, mist or murk, so you ought to be able to see fireworks, just not stars," remarked one forecaster.
Heading into Friday, advisories have been issued across Northern Ireland and from Wales, across parts of the north-west, the West Midlands and reaching London and most of the south-east of England.
With the start of 2026, it will be "cold regardless of where you are," said forecaster Simon Partridge. Conditions are expected to drop further as snow and gale-force winds are likely to affect the north of the country.
About 10cm of snow is forecast to have built up in some areas by Friday morning, potentially hitting 30cm on the highest roads and hills.
At the same time, amber cold health alerts have been activated for the north-east and north-west of England. These are set to continue until noon on 5 January, with the mercury forecast to fall to between 3C and 5C.
Officials explained this signified the weather was likely to trigger notable consequences across medical and care provision. This encompasses a likely increase in the mortality rate among those with health conditions or those aged 65 or over.
The advice for all is clear: to welcome the new year in safely, preparing for winter conditions is utterly essential.