UK Weather Live: Snow and Ice Disrupt Travel as Warnings issued
Updated November 19, 2025 – Widespread snow flurries are causing notable disruption across the UK this morning, triggering fresh weather warnings and leading to school closures. The Met Office has issued yellow warnings for snow and ice covering large swathes of Scotland, Northern Ireland, Wales, and parts of northern England, with potential for travel chaos.
The hazardous conditions are dramatically increasing stopping distances – under normal conditions, a car travelling at 50mph requires 53 metres to stop, but this extends to a staggering 395 metres on snow and ice. Even at 30mph, stopping distances leap from 23 metres to 149 metres. These figures,sourced from Gov.uk and the AA, highlight the extreme risks faced by drivers. The current cold snap is impacting road users, pedestrians, and infrastructure, with authorities urging caution and preparedness.
Motorists are being advised to check road conditions before travelling and to allow extra time for journeys. Essential supplies for car travel include gloves, sturdy boots, a warm blanket, and sunglasses for bright, snowy conditions. A fully charged mobile phone, torch, batteries, and any necessary medication are also vital.
To mitigate getting stranded, drivers are recommended to carry a shovel and materials like old carpet or cat litter to improve tire grip if stuck in snow. Consideration should be given to fitting winter tyres, especially for those in areas frequently affected by snowfall.
The colder weather also poses a risk to car batteries, which are prone to draining more quickly in winter.Regular longer journeys or the use of a trickle-charger can definitely help maintain battery health. Schools in affected areas are making decisions on closures based on local conditions, and individuals are encouraged to stay updated with the latest forecasts and travel advice.
