The West Midlands is set for a wintry blast as the new year begins, with the Met Office issuing a significant weather warning for snow and ice. Residents across Birmingham and the wider region are being urged to prepare for hazardous conditions and a sharp drop in temperatures.
Yellow Warning in Force for Friday
A Met Office yellow warning for snow and ice will be active across the West Midlands from midnight until midday on Friday 2nd January 2026. This alert highlights the potential for travel disruption, icy surfaces, and possible accumulations of snow. The cold snap is being driven by Arctic air moving south to cover the entire UK.
Hour-by-Hour Snow Forecast
The national forecaster has provided a detailed, hourly probability for precipitation, which is expected to fall as a mix of rain and snow during the early hours of Friday. The likelihood peaks in the middle of the night.
- 12am: 40% chance of rain and snow
- 1am: 60% chance of rain and snow
- 2am: 70% chance of rain and snow
- 3am: 80% chance of rain and snow
- 4am: 70% chance of rain and snow
- 5am: 50% chance of rain and snow
Frosty conditions are anticipated across much of the region between midnight and 5am. The Met Office has also cautioned that icy patches could develop quickly as any sleet and snow clears.
Prolonged Cold Spell Ahead
Chief Meteorologist Jason Kelly stated that the UK is entering a much colder period. Temperatures will fall well below average, with daytime figures struggling to rise above 0°C for many areas over the weekend. Overnight lows could reach double-digit minus figures.
Kelly warned that wintry hazards are expected to continue through Saturday and Sunday, with further severe weather warnings a possibility. He advised that this cold spell could last well into next week, emphasising the importance for the public to stay updated with the latest forecasts and to plan their journeys and activities carefully.
The combination of snow showers, potential accumulations, and widespread ice poses significant risks on roads and pavements. Authorities are encouraging people to take necessary precautions during this period of severe winter weather.
