The freezing weather could impact driving conditions.
By Sarah Barltrop 09:32, Tue, Dec 2, 2025 Updated: 09:32, Tue, Dec 2, 2025
Snow to hit Britain as temperatures plunge (Image: Getty)
Temperatures are set to plummet in December to a bitter -6C as snow batters the UK. Heavy snowfall has been forecast for one part of the country, with up to 8cm (3.1 inches) predicted to settle.
Most of the snow is expected in Scotland, with the 8cm blanket forecast for the Highlands, forecaster WXCharts reports. At least 3cm (0.7 inches) is expected to fall across the majority of the country overnight on December 17. There is a risk of icy conditions as WXCharts weather maps predict temperatures will drop well below freezing across the majority of Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and in Northern England. Cumbria will feel bitterly cold, dropping to a minimum of -2C, most of Wales will reach zero, and Northern Ireland will vary between 0C and -1C.
Snow depth at midnight on Wednesday 17 (Image: WXCharts)
However, the coldest nation will be Scotland, as huge swathes of the country will drop to -2C or -3C, and even drop to a harsh -6C. The south of England will struggle to hit 4C, with the Midlands averaging at around 3C.
Tuesday will still be bitterly cold in Scotland, although the minimum has been forecast at -1C, and England will reach highs of 7C.
The Met Office long-range forecast also predicts a greater chance of overnight fog and frost for the period between December 16 and December 30 due to spells of high pressure, which makes dry weather more likely. The Met Office previously noted that predicting snow is difficult, especially weeks in advance.
When roads become icy or snowy, the weather agency advises drivers to avoid travel whenever possible. If travel is necessary, it recommends taking care around gritters, slowing down, and using the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin.
According to weather maps, the major cities of Dundee, Glasgow, Edinburgh and Aberdeen will miss out on the snow, but rural areas and towns will be hit the hardest in Scotland. The rest of the UK will be clear of snow overnight on Wednesday.
The Met Office said: “There will probably still be some spells of rain, showers, and stronger winds though, especially in the west. Hill snow is also a possibility, mainly in the north.
“Overall, near or slightly above average temperatures are most likely, though some colder spells are also possible, especially should any prolonged settled spells develop.”
