Temperatures Dip Below Freezing as Arctic Air Sweeps Across UK

Published: 17 February 2026. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online

A fresh wave of Arctic air has pushed temperatures across the United Kingdom below freezing this week, triggering a series of weather warnings for snow, ice and hazardous conditions as winter grips the nation once again. Mother Nature’s chill has been felt far and wide, from the Scottish Highlands to northern England, Northern Ireland and parts of Wales, prompting forecasters to urge caution on roads, railways and pavements.

Overnight lows have plunged well below zero in many areas, with parts of Scotland recording temperatures as cold as -4.7 °C, while Cumbria and Northern Ireland have seen sub-zero readings in recent nights. The Met Office has issued multiple yellow weather warnings for snow and ice, especially covering northern and eastern Scotland, northern England and Wales, as the Arctic maritime air mass sinks southwards.

Heavy snow and freezing rain are forecast to affect some regions, with reports already of snowfall accumulating at higher elevations and persistent icy patches forming on untreated surfaces. The wintry conditions have led to travel disruptions, including road closures and slower rail services, while authorities have advised drivers to prepare for slippery sections and longer journey times.

The cold snap follows a prolonged period of unsettled weather earlier this winter, with storms and flooding alerts still in place across parts of England and Wales. As the Arctic blast continues, daytime temperatures are expected to remain in the low single figures, making it feel significantly colder with wind chill even in areas that see sunshine.

Experts say the current cold conditions are driven by strong northerly winds that have pulled frigid air down from the Arctic, a common pattern this time of year that can lead to abrupt drops in temperature and wintry precipitation. Snowfall may continue to ease in some areas this week before milder Atlantic air pushes in later, but residents are warned that frost and ice hazards will persist through much of the week.

Public health advice has also highlighted the need to look after the most vulnerable — including older people and those with existing health conditions — as prolonged exposure to cold weather can increase the risk of health problems. Simple steps such as keeping homes heated, checking on neighbours and bundling up warmly outdoors are being encouraged while conditions remain cold.

For now, much of the UK is in the grip of a classic winter cold snap as Arctic air continues to sweep across the country, reminding residents that despite a relatively mild start to the season, winter isn’t over yet.

Read More At>>