Arctic cold snap brings risk of snow as UK communities clean up after severe flooding

A wave of Arctic air is expected to sweep across the UK next week, bringing sharply colder temperatures and the possibility of snow, while communities in Wales continue their recovery from the devastating floods caused by Storm Claudia over the weekend.

Temperatures will fall considerably, with yellow cold-health alerts issued across northern and central England from Monday to Friday. Snow is expected on higher ground in Scotland and northern England as early as Tuesday, forecasters say.

Storm Claudia delivered more than a month’s worth of rainfall in parts of England and Wales, triggering major flooding in the Welsh town of Monmouth. Residents have been working together to help homeowners and businesses clear thick mud and damaged belongings.

The major incident declared in the area was lifted on Sunday afternoon as water levels receded. Four severe flood warnings — indicating a “danger to life” — were also withdrawn. The River Monnow reached record levels, surpassing those seen during Storm Dennis in 2020 and Storm Bert in 2024.

Although calmer and drier conditions are expected early in the week, wintry showers may affect eastern coasts on Monday. Highs of 5–10°C are forecast for much of the UK.

By Tuesday, low pressure will bring rain, sleet, and possible snow to northern areas, especially mountainous regions. The UK Health Security Agency warns that the cold spell could have “significant impacts” on health and social care services.

Midweek will remain cold with brisk northerly winds and scattered sleet or snow showers across Scotland, eastern England, Northern Ireland, west Wales, and possibly the southwest moors. The drop in temperatures comes after weeks of mild southerly winds from the Canary Islands; the UK now sits on the colder side of the jet stream.

In Monmouth, the aftermath of Storm Claudia remains severe: homes left caked in sludge, hundreds without power, and many residents evacuated to libraries and leisure centres. “It’s dreadful,” county councillor Martin Newell told the BBC, adding that one resident had “lost everything”.

Local MP Catherine Fookes called the situation “deeply worrying” and highlighted the need to review flood defences. She praised the “resilient and kind” community donating clothes and hot meals to evacuees.

Flooding has been less severe in England, but 27 flood warnings remain active. Rail networks experienced major disruption over the weekend, with some Great Western Railway and Transport for Wales services still affected. National Rail advises passengers to check schedules, while the AA urges drivers to avoid “hazardous” weather conditions.