Snow and Ice Force UK Schools to Shut

Hundreds of schools across the UK have closed, and travel has been heavily disrupted due to heavy snowfall and icy conditions sweeping the country. Train services and flights have been canceled, while road travel has become extremely difficult or impossible in parts of northern Scotland, affecting people returning to work and school after the Christmas break.

Authorities issued amber warnings for heavy snow in northern Scotland overnight, with less severe yellow warnings for snow and ice covering much of the rest of the UK.

NHS leaders have cautioned that the severe cold could add extra pressure on healthcare services, particularly during one of the busiest weeks of the year. Hospitals typically see higher patient numbers in early January, as seasonal illnesses spread after indoor gatherings over the festive period, compounded by limited community healthcare availability.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued amber cold weather alerts for England lasting until Friday, highlighting that the low temperatures may pose health risks, especially for vulnerable groups.