New year snow and ice alert for South East

People across Surrey, Sussex and Kent are being warned to expect a frosty and cold start to 2026.

The Met Office has issued a warning of snow and ice for the South East from midnight on Friday through to midday.

It is part of a wider warning for the UK, with a yellow warning in place for Scotland and arctic weather spreading south.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued an amber alert for the whole country.

Where snow falls the Met Office said up to 2cm (0.8 inches) is likely, although in some places it could be up to 5cm (1.9 inches).

Met Office deputy chief forecaster Mark Sidaway said: "Arctic air and strong northerly winds will bring very cold conditions to all parts of the UK, and it will feel especially cold in the strong winds.

"Widespread and locally severe frosts are expected, along with the first snow of the winter for many.

"It looks like this cold spell will last through at least the first week of January, so it's important people keep up to date with the latest forecast and warnings."

Anyone planning to travel should check for road closures and allow extra time for their journey, the Met Office said.

The RNLI said anyone planning to take a near year swim in the sea or open water should check the forecast, tide tables and sea conditions first.

They should also not swim alone or in unfamiliar water, and take warm clothes and a hot drink.

Snow fell briefly across the South East on the morning of 19 November, when it was still meteorological autumn.

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