Forecasters are saying a chilly beginning to the new year, with snowfall anticipated throughout a lot of the UK. Those celebrating have been told to wrap up as sub-zero temperatures are forecast for New Year's Eve.
The Scottish capital's iconic Hogmanay festivities are planned to go ahead, unlike last year's calling-off. This comes despite advisories for snow in northern Scotland.
"An icy New Year's Eve night for those who are celebrating, so extra layers will be essential," noted the national forecaster.
Elsewhere in the UK, the weather is likely to be suited to fireworks celebrations, with a lack of precipitation and clear skies. Temperatures are forecast to be chilly, making warm wraps vital, as per forecasters.
Further north, skies will be more overcast, but this is not expected to affect visibility for viewing fireworks. "It won't be low cloud, mist or murk, so you ought to be able to see fireworks, just not stars," commented one forecaster.
As we enter Friday, advisories are in place across Northern Ireland and stretching from Wales, through the north-west, the West Midlands and reaching London and most of the south-east of England.
Going into the new year, it will be "chilly no matter where you are," commented forecaster Simon Partridge. The weather are set to plummet as wintry showers and strong winds are likely to affect the north of the country.
Approximately 10cm of snow is forecast to have accumulated in some areas by Friday morning, with up to 30cm on the most elevated routes and peaks.
At the same time, amber cold health alerts have been activated for the north-east and north-west of England. These are set to stay active until noon on 5 January, with the mercury likely to fall to between 3C and 5C.
Officials stated this signified the weather was likely to cause major effects across the NHS and care systems. This encompasses a likely increase in the number of deaths among those with health conditions or those aged 65 or over.
The advice for all is clear: to welcome the new year in security, dressing for the cold is absolutely essential.
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