UK households have been advised to act now and prepare their homes with five specific items ahead of Thursday. The warning comes from the Met Office, which has issued two snow and ice weather warning for Thursday, January 1 and Friday, January 2. Brits, particularly in Scotland, are being warned of the harsh weather conditions that are set to arrive at the beginning of the snow year, with the Met Office warning that travel could also be interrupted.

Drivers are urged not to drive in snowy and icy conditions unless absolutely necessary, and if travel is required, then to leave extra time and to be well prepared with the likes of torches, ice scraper, blanket, and food. However, even those planning to stay at home have been urged to take precautions ahead of Thursday.

The Met Office warned that households should take action now to ensure they can cope if the power is cut off. It said: “You could be without food, heat or light if you are cut off by snow and can’t access services and amenities for a number of days. Act now and be prepared, by getting the essentials together that you could need: Torches and batteries, candles and matches or lighters.”

The weather agency also advises having “plenty of blankets and warm clothing”. It also noted in its 5-day weather forecast that New Year’s Day will see “very cold conditions and wintry showers following into the weekend”.

The Met Office also advises that, to stay safe in snow, people should “take a fully charged mobile phone with an in-car charger or battery pack”.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has also issued an amber cold health alert for the North East and North West of England until January 5, while all other regions in England are under a yellow alert.

Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, said: “As the colder weather sets in it is vital to check in on friends, family and neighbours that are most vulnerable.

“The forecasted temperatures can have a serious impact on the health of some people, leading to increased risk of heart attacks, strokes and chest infections, particularly for individuals over the age of 65 and those with pre-existing health conditions.”

It is crucial that Brits stay up-to-date with local weather forecasts and any health alerts, as they can update and change quickly, as well as follow advice given by the Met Office and UKHSA to keep you safe.