Cloud and rain will take charge for much of the Christmas weekend over southern areas of the UK, with bands of rain tracking eastwards. Highest rainfall totals are expected in southwest England, southern Wales and Northern Ireland. Keep up to date with the latest weather warnings. 

As this band of rain moves northwards, there’s a continued chance of some late Christmas Day snow for the high ground of northern England and possibly southern Scotland, with a greater chance developing into the early part of Boxing Day.  

A warning has now been issued, for snow over some upland areas, which coupled with strong, gusty winds could lead to some hazardous travel conditions, for anyone travelling early on 26 December. The odd flake of snow could also fall on the high ground of northern England and north Wales early on Christmas day. 

The clearer conditions in the north will also coincide with colder air, which has triggered a UK Health Security Agency Cold Weather Alert for some northern and central areas of England, where temperatures will be below freezing overnight. This will be coupled with some gusty winds in the north, which will make it feel even colder.  

Chief Meteorologist Frank Saunders said: “The Christmas period will be unsettled for much of the UK this year. Many will see wet and cloudy conditions as mild air dominates the south and west of the UK. This contrasts with the cold air in the northeast, which brings that chance of some snow, most likely over the Pennines and the southern half of Scotland, and perhaps a little more likely into the early part of Boxing Day. Added to the mix is a strong easterly wind, especially in northern areas, which will make it feel particularly cold.” 

Get tips on winter driving from the RAC, as part of WeatherReady.  

Find out what’s good to have in your car so you can be prepared for winter weather. 

Find out how to check your vehicle over ahead of making long journeys.  

Further ahead 

As we move towards New Year, the weather will remain changeable but become increasingly mild, with periods of wet and windy weather for most areas. 

Check the latest forecast for your area on our website, by following us on Twitter and Facebook, as well as on our mobile app which is available for iPhone from the App store and for Android from the Google Play store. Keep track of current weather warnings on the weather warning page.