A cold weather warning has been issued for Christmas Day, with meteorologists stating that the chance of having snow on Christmas is unlikely. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has declared a yellow cold health alert for south-west England from 6 pm on Christmas Day until 12 pm on December 27. The alert warns of potential health impacts due to low temperatures, including an increase in healthcare usage by vulnerable individuals and a higher risk to their well-being.
According to a spokesperson from the Met Office, Oli Claydon, Christmas Day is expected to have favorable weather conditions, particularly in southern England and Wales with clear skies. However, northern regions may experience cloudier weather initially, with the possibility of sunny intervals later in the day. Strong easterly winds, especially along the south coast, are also anticipated due to high-pressure systems dominating the weather across the UK.
Claydon mentioned that the likelihood of experiencing a white Christmas this year is very slim, with dry weather predicted for the upcoming days. Although there is a slight chance of rain affecting the south-west of England, the chances of snowfall are minimal. Temperatures on Christmas Day are forecasted to reach around 7°C in the north-east and 6°C in the south or south-east of England.
Overnight on Christmas Day into Boxing Day, frost and freezing temperatures are expected in rural western areas, with temperatures possibly dropping to minus 6°C in rural Scotland and minus 4°C in rural Wales. The RAC anticipates a peak in Christmas Eve getaway trips by car at 4.2 million, with lighter traffic expected for regular commuters.
A representative from the RAC advised drivers, especially those traveling long distances, to set off before the anticipated traffic peak between 1 pm and 7 pm. Major roads to be cautious of congestion include the northern and western sections of the M25 and the M5 north from Gloucestershire towards the West Midlands.