Leeds Weather: Wintry Conditions Bring Snow and Freezing Temperatures to West Yorkshire

Cold Snap Grips Leeds as Winter Conditions Intensify

Leeds residents are experiencing a distinctly wintry start to 2026, with snow and ice warnings issued by the Met Office and forecasts predicting a mix of rain, sleet and snow throughout the week. Understanding local weather patterns has become increasingly important for residents planning their daily activities, travel arrangements, and winter preparations.

Current Weather Conditions and Forecasts

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a yellow cold health alert for Yorkshire and The Humber, highlighting the severity of the current cold spell. The latest Met Office data shows wind gusts reaching 25mph with feels-like temperatures dropping to -5°C, making conditions significantly colder than actual air temperatures suggest.

BBC Weather forecasts show light snow and light winds for Leeds on January 6, with sleet and a gentle breeze predicted for January 2, 7, 8 and 9. The combination of freezing temperatures and precipitation creates hazardous conditions, particularly on untreated roads and pavements. Overnight temperatures are expected to drop quickly with widespread frost, reaching minimum temperatures of -4°C.

January Weather Patterns in Leeds

Leeds experiences its lowest average temperatures in January, reaching a peak of 5.4°C and a minimum of 1.4°C. A noted characteristic of January is the increased amount of snowfall, with 16mm of snow spread over approximately three days. This typical winter pattern means residents should prepare for continued cold and potentially disruptive weather throughout the month.

What This Means for Residents

The current weather conditions require careful planning and preparation. Drivers should exercise caution on roads, particularly during morning and evening commutes when ice is most likely to form. The Met Office reports rain, sleet and snow moving in from the northwest, with sunny spells and wintry showers elsewhere, alongside another very cold day with strengthening winds.

For those venturing outdoors, appropriate winter clothing is essential. The combination of low temperatures, wind chill, and potential precipitation creates challenging conditions. Looking ahead, the outlook through late January into early February remains uncertain, though a westerly regime seems likely, bringing changeable conditions with spells of wet, windy and mild weather alongside colder, drier interludes with overnight frost and fog. Leeds residents should stay informed through regular weather updates and take necessary precautions to stay safe during this wintry period.