UK weather: Met Office warns of late‑January temperature plunge

The Met Office warned on 17 January 2026 that temperatures across the UK could drop again toward the month’s end, raising the odds of snow. Forecasts for Saturday show average highs of 6 °C to 10 °C (43–50 °F), with showers especially over southeast England, northwest Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Meteorologist Honor Criswick noted a “very cloudy and grey day” with dense fog and heavy rain moving northward. From Thursday 22 January, the agency expects a clash between west‑coming Atlantic systems and eastern high pressure, which may bring a colder spell and snow across parts of Britain. The report also cautions of a higher chance of wintry hazards into February.