Weather Warnings Archive: Friday 02 Jan 2026 15:27 GMT - UK

issued by the Metoffice at
   15:27, 02.01.2026

valid from
   00:00, 03.01.2026
until
   12:00, 03.01.2026

Region: Orkney & Shetland

Heavy snow showers will become more frequent and may merge to give longer spells of snow at times. Further accumulations of 10-15cm are likely at low levels with 20-30cm possible on high ground. Strong winds will also result in drifting of snow and temporary blizzard conditions. Lightning may be an additional hazard. The period covered by this warning reflects a spell of more frequent snow showers and a higher chance of disruption, and yellow snow and ice warnings remain valid for a longer period. What Should I Do? Snowy, wintry weather can cause delays and make driving conditions dangerous, so to keep yourself and others safe: plan your route, checking for delays and road closures, amending your travel plans if necessary; if driving, leave more time to prepare and check your car before setting off; make sure you have essentials packed in your car in the event of any delays (warm clothing, food, water, a blanket, a torch, ice scraper/de-icer, a warning triangle, high visibility vest and an in-car phone charger). People cope better when they have prepared in advance for the risk of power cuts or being cut off from services and amenities due to the snow. It’s easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items. Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly: when a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area.

Heavy snow showers becoming more frequent and prolonged will lead to disruption.

The public is advised to take extra care, further information and advice can be found here: http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/uk/links.html

issued by the Metoffice at
   15:27, 02.01.2026

valid from
   00:00, 03.01.2026
until
   12:00, 05.01.2026

Region: Orkney & Shetland

Snow showers are expected to continue through the weekend, being brought well inland by strong northerly winds. Winds should ease somewhat into Sunday, with showers by then most prevalent around coasts. Snow showers should finally begin to ease during Monday morning. With temperatures inland likely remaining below freezing through the weekend, thaw of lying snow is not expected. With respect to additional accumulations: through the weekend and into Monday morning, a further 2 to 5, locally 10-15 cm of lying snow is possible in low lying areas. 15-30 cm could potentially accumulate above 200 m, most likely for the northwest Highlands and Grampians. Given wind strengths Saturday some drifting of snow and temporary blizzard conditions are likely. Lightning will be an additional hazard near showers. What Should I Do? Snowy, wintry weather can cause delays and make driving conditions dangerous, so to keep yourself and others safe: plan your route, checking for delays and road closures, amending your travel plans if necessary; if driving, leave more time to prepare and check your car before setting off; make sure you have essentials packed in your car in the event of any delays (warm clothing, food, water, a blanket, a torch, ice scraper/de-icer, a warning triangle, high visibility vest and an in-car phone charger). People cope better when they have prepared in advance for the risk of power cuts or being cut off from services and amenities due to the snow. It’s easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items. Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly: when a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area.

Frequent and heavy snow showers will bring further accumulations of snow and ice which may cause travel disruption and delays.

The public is advised to take extra care, further information and advice can be found here: http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/uk/links.html