Nottingham Braces for Cold Snap and Snow as January Brings Winter Weather Challenges
Understanding Nottingham’s Current Weather Situation
Weather in Nottingham has become a critical concern for residents as the city faces a significant winter cold snap in early January 2026. With temperatures feeling as low as -1°C and wind gusts reaching 33mph, the East Midlands region is experiencing challenging conditions that require careful preparation and awareness.
The East Midlands is currently under an amber alert for cold weather, which is due to expire at 10am on Friday, January 9, highlighting the severity of the situation. This weather alert serves as an important reminder for vulnerable populations to take necessary precautions.
Snow Warnings and Weather Hazards
A yellow warning for snow has been issued, with 1-3 inches of snow expected Thursday night, creating potential travel disruptions and hazardous conditions. According to Nottingham snow forecast for January 2026, 1 snowy day is expected at the beginning of January at Saturday, 3 January, though additional snowfall may occur throughout the week.
Met Office Chief Meteorologist Matthew Lehnert emphasises the range of winter weather hazards facing the region. “As we begin the first full working week of the year, we face a range of winter weather hazards with snow showers and ice. Elsewhere in the UK, snow showers, ice and frost are expected at times but milder air will make attempts to spread eastward from Tuesday.”
Air Quality Concerns and Health Implications
Beyond the cold temperatures and snow, the air has reached a high level of pollution and is unhealthy for sensitive groups. This poor air quality adds another layer of concern for Nottingham residents, particularly those with respiratory conditions or other health vulnerabilities.
Looking Ahead: Weather Patterns and Preparations
Daytime temperatures usually reach 7°C in Nottingham in January, falling to 2°C at night, with normally 2 hours of bright sunshine each day. However, current conditions are significantly colder than these averages. Typically, Nottingham has 15 rainy days in January with a total of 52.4 mm of rainfall, though this year snow is replacing much of the expected precipitation.
Residents should prepare for continued cold conditions, dress warmly in layers, and monitor local weather updates regularly. The combination of freezing temperatures, snow warnings, and poor air quality makes this a particularly challenging period for the city, requiring vigilance and appropriate precautions to ensure safety and wellbeing throughout the week.