A health advisory for cold weather has been issued for Christmas Day, indicating that the likelihood of having a snowy Christmas is very low. The UK Health Security Agency has raised a yellow cold health alert for south-west England from 6 pm on Christmas Day until 12 pm on December 27. This alert warns of potential impacts on health and social care services, including increased healthcare usage by vulnerable individuals and a higher risk to vulnerable people’s lives.
According to a spokesperson from the Met Office, Oli Claydon, Christmas Day is expected to have generally pleasant weather conditions. The day will start brightly in southern England and Wales, with clouds gradually dispersing. Northern areas may see cloud breaks by midday, with sunny spells developing. Additionally, a strong easterly wind, particularly along the south coast of England, may lead to gusty conditions.
The weather across the UK is currently under the influence of high pressure, resulting in a settled period with cooler temperatures than recent days. Claydon mentioned that the chances of witnessing a white Christmas this year are minimal, as the upcoming days are forecasted to be predominantly dry.
Temperatures on Christmas Day are predicted to reach around 7°C in north-east England and 6°C in southern or south-eastern England. Overnight on Christmas Day into Boxing Day, frost and freezing temperatures are expected in rural western areas, with potential lows of -6°C in parts of Scotland and -4°C in rural Wales.
The RAC anticipates a peak in festive car journeys on Christmas Eve, with an estimated 4.2 million trips expected. Commuter traffic is likely to be lighter than usual. The RAC advises drivers to travel before 1 pm to avoid heavy traffic, especially on major roads like the M25 and M5, where congestion is expected during specific times.
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