Significant travel disruptions are expected across the UK as a result of heavy snowfall, impacting airports, roads, and rail services. A cold snap, continuing into the first weekend of 2025, has prompted weather alerts, with substantial accumulations predicted in some areas.
Several major airports temporarily closed runways due to the snow, leading to flight cancellations and delays. Leeds Bradford Airport remains closed, while Manchester and Liverpool John Lennon Airports have reopened. National Highways warned of potential road closures in northern England, with up to 25cm of snow and ice anticipated.
Amber weather warnings for snow and freezing rain have been issued for parts of Wales and central England, although these warnings have been lifted. However, a further amber alert remains in place for northern England for the remainder of the day. The Met Office anticipates up to 40cm of snow in the most affected regions, with 3-7cm expected in many other areas. Yellow weather warnings are in place across much of the UK, with a new yellow rain warning issued for southern England, lasting until Monday morning, due to milder temperatures.
UK Health Security Agency cold weather health alerts remain in effect for all of England, anticipating a week of low temperatures. Councils in London and southern England have activated emergency measures, including providing additional accommodation for rough sleepers.
Disruptions extend to other sectors, including the cancellation of the Plumpton race meeting due to waterlogging from heavy rain and flood warnings and alerts issued across England and some parts of Wales. Northern Rail advises against unnecessary travel due to heavy snow, and Avanti West Coast train services face potential delays or cancellations. National Rail encourages travellers to check schedules for the latest updates.
