UK households have been advised to load their cars with specific items ahead of Thursday as the Met Office issues weather warnings for January 1 and 2. The new year is set to arrive with harsh weather conditions as the weather agency reveals that 2026 will start off with snowfall and ice for some parts of the nation. 

Mark Sidaway, Met Office deputy chief forecaster, 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.”

Yellow weather warnings for Thursday, January 1 and Friday, January 2, have been issued for Scotland. Snow and ice are expected to lead to “disruption in travel at the start of the year,” therefore, the Met Office has recommended that those who are travelling have certain items in their car.

It said: “Snowy, wintry weather can cause delays and make driving conditions dangerous, so to keep yourself and others safe: plan your route, checking for delays and road closures, amending your travel plans if necessary.

“If driving, leave more time to prepare and check your car before setting off; make sure you have essentials packed in your car in the event of any delays (warm clothing, food, water, a blanket, a torch, ice scraper/de-icer, a warning triangle, high visibility vest and an in-car phone charger).”

The weather agency also urges drivers not to rely on their smartphones as a torch or for maps; instead, it is recommended to also have a “paper road atlas in case of diversions or getting lost”.

Weather warnings can change quickly, so it is always advisable to regularly check your local weather forecasts to stay updated with any announcements.