Cold Arctic air to hit this New Year's with temperatures dropping to -2°C
Last updated 30th Dec 2025
Unsettled and wintry conditions have been forecast as we welcome in the New Year.
Temperatures are expected to continue to drop as wintry conditions set in over the coming days.
Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster Mark Sidaway said: “It certainly looks like we are in for a taste of ‘winter’ as we welcome in the New Year, initially in the north, but more widely across the UK for the first week of 2026.
“Arctic air and strong northerly winds will bring cold or 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.
Northern Ireland's five-day forecast 👇
Today: The day will be mostly dry, the morning will be mainly cloudy with the occasional bright spell but sunny periods will increase during the afternoon. Maximum temperature 6 °C.
Tonight: The night will continue dry with clear periods. Light winds and clear periods will lead to a frosty night with the occasional fog patch. Minimum temperature -2 °C.
Wednesday: After a bright and frosty start much of the day will stay dry with sunny spells. Cloud will spread south during the afternoon with showers in the north towards evening. Maximum temperature 5 °C.
Outlook for Thursday to Saturday: Cloudy with showers becoming wintry towards the evening Thursday. Snow showers become frequent overnight into Friday but ease for a time from the afternoon. Further snow showers Saturday. Windy.
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