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The last day of 2020 has seen snow fall in some extremely cold places and conditions across much of the UK, with North Yorkshire facing the coldest temperatures.
A low of minus 7.5 ° C (18.5 ° F) was recorded at Topcliffe, near Thirsk in North Yorkshire, on New Year’s Eve as the cold snap continues across the country.
Wednesday saw the coldest night of winter yet, with a low of minus 10.2 ° C (13.6 ° F) recorded at Dalwhinnie in the Scottish Highlands.
RAC Breakdown ‘strongly’ urges drivers to be careful on New Years Day
Freezing temperatures led to icy conditions along much of England’s southern coast in the early hours of Thursday, and many parts of the North West woke up to thick fog and a layer of snow. It continues to fall and more is forecast for the region.
Parts of Merseyside were already covered in snow, but it has not yet melted as temperatures stayed below freezing.
Police have urged drivers to exercise caution after a series of accidents, while Transport for Greater Manchester has also warned people to expect delays and to allow more time for trips if they venture out.
North Wales Police advised motorists to avoid all non-essential travel after officers encountered multiple collisions on the A55 due to dangerous conditions brought on by snow and ice.
In Northern Ireland, police urged walkers to prepare for winter weather after two groups had to be rescued from the Morne Mountains in County Down on Wednesday.
One group was found on Ben Crom and taken to safety by mountain rescue volunteers, while another group was taken to safety.
Met Office forecaster Clare Nasir said: “New Year’s Eve will once again bear the risk of rain, sleet and snow, another feature sliding across the country from northern Scotland.
“Particularly inland and over the hills we will see some snow.
“Many of us will see brighter weather, with a strong breeze that will keep things very cold, and again the risk of ice as we approach New Years Day, with again a wintry mix coming and going, and a fairly widespread frost. “
RAC Breakdown is “strongly” urging drivers to be careful on New Years Day.
Spokesman Simon Williams said: “The message for those who have to drive is to adjust their speed according to conditions and allow extra stopping distance so that 2021 doesn’t start with an unwanted pothole and an insurance claim.
“Snow and ice are by far the harshest driving conditions, so if they can be avoided, it’s probably the best policy.”
