Londoners are shivering through a bitter cold snap, with sub-zero temperatures gripping the capital and forecasts predicting conditions will worsen before any significant improvement.
A Bitter Start to the New Year
The chill has been unmistakable, with thermometers dipping below freezing. Early risers on Sunday morning felt a sharp -2C. However, the mercury is set to fall further, with the coldest point expected in the early hours of Monday, January 5, where temperatures could plunge to -3C.
The severe conditions have prompted official action. Mayor Sadiq Khan has activated the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP), opening additional indoor beds for people experiencing homelessness across London during this perilously cold period.
Health Warnings and National Alerts
Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), has issued a stark warning. He emphasised the serious health risks posed by such low temperatures, particularly for vulnerable groups.
"The forecast temperatures can have a serious impact on the health of some people," Dr Sousa stated. "This leads to an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes and chest infections, especially for those over 65 and individuals with pre-existing health conditions." He urged the public to check on friends, family, and neighbours who may be at risk.
While yellow weather warnings for snow and ice are in force for parts of Scotland, the North, East Coast, West Country, and Wales, London itself is not currently under such an alert. The capital has, however, seen light snow dustings in recent days.
The Forecast: From Freeze to Thaw
According to the BBC London forecast, the cold spell will persist through the coming days with sleet and rain predicted. A significant shift is expected by Monday, January 12, when temperatures are projected to rise to around 9C.
This milder pattern is then forecast to hold, with daytime temperatures remaining around 8C or 9C until at least Saturday, January 17. The detailed outlook is as follows:
- Wednesday, January 7: Sleet, light winds, 4C
- Thursday, January 8: Light rain, light winds, 6C
- Friday, January 9: Light rain, gentle breeze, 6C
- Saturday, January 10: Sleet, light winds, 6C
- Sunday, January 11: Light rain, gentle breeze, 7C
- Monday, January 12: Light rain, gentle breeze, 9C
- Tuesday, January 13: Light rain, gentle breeze, 8C
- Wednesday, January 14: Light rain, gentle breeze, 9C
- Thursday, January 15: Light rain, gentle breeze, 9C
- Friday, January 16: Light rain, gentle breeze, 9C
- Saturday, January 17: Light rain, light breeze, 8C
Residents are advised to wrap up warm, take care on potentially icy paths, and look out for those most vulnerable during this intense London cold snap before the anticipated January thaw sets in.
