UK weather: Blizzard conditions forecast as Britons return to work and school

Amber warnings are in force for parts of northern Scotland with a risk of heavy snow and blizzard conditions, while yellow warnings cover much of England, Wales and Northern Ireland; temperatures fell to around −9.3°C overnight.

Amber and yellow weather warnings cover much of the UK as people return to work and school. The Met Office has issued amber alerts for parts of northern Scotland with a reported risk of heavy snow and blizzard conditions, while yellow warnings apply across large parts of England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Temperatures fell to about −9.3°C overnight in Benson, south Oxfordshire. The RAC reported it expects an increase in vehicle breakdowns after the holiday period. Key facts: - Amber warnings were reported for northern Scotland, including Aberdeenshire, the Cairngorms, Orkney and Shetland, with some places potentially seeing 20–30 cm of snow and a reported risk of communities becoming cut off; those amber warnings were reported to expire at 10:00 GMT this morning. - Yellow warnings for snow and ice cover much of England, all of Wales and Northern Ireland, and parts of Scotland, with some yellow warnings extending into Monday night or expiring by midday. - Temperatures dropped to about −9.3°C (15°F) in Benson, south Oxfordshire, increasing the risk of icy conditions on roads. - The RAC reported that the first working day back after New Year often brings many vehicle breakdowns, citing flat batteries, and the UK Health Security Agency issued amber-level health alerts for England through 9 January, reported as warning of likely impacts on health and social care services. Summary: Reported warnings indicate likely travel disruption, local power issues and additional strain on health and transport services in affected areas. Some amber warnings were reported to expire mid-morning and forecasters say milder air may begin to spread from Tuesday, which could change conditions. Undetermined at this time.