The Met Office has issued a fresh forecast warning that the UK is set for a significant and "noticeable" change in weather as the New Year begins. After a relatively mild festive period, conditions are expected to deteriorate, bringing a marked drop in temperatures and strengthening winds.
When Will The Colder Weather Arrive?
Forecasters have pinpointed New Year's Day, 1st January, as the start of this colder spell. The shift is predicted to last for the first few days of 2026, with high pressure building to the north of the country. This atmospheric setup will funnel a strengthening easterly and then northeasterly wind across the UK, making it feel significantly colder due to wind-chill.
What Weather Can We Expect?
The Met Office's forecast, covering Christmas Eve (24th December) to 2nd January, indicates a transition to more settled but much chillier conditions. While a fair amount of dry weather is expected, the easterly flow will bring a risk of showers, particularly to eastern and southern regions.
These showers could turn wintry in places, especially over high ground. The high pressure is then expected to drift westwards around the New Year, maintaining largely settled weather but with an increasing chance of showers later in the period.
Key Impacts and Short-Term Outlook
The main impacts for the public will be the below-average temperatures and widespread frost where skies clear and winds are light. The wind-chill from the persistent easterly breeze will make it feel particularly cold.
Looking at the immediate Christmas week, the Met Office outlook states that further rain or showers are expected on Monday, with rather cloudy skies. High pressure will then build towards the northeast into Tuesday, with colder conditions developing throughout the week in the run-up to the New Year's shift.
