South-West England: How Strong Winds and Cold Temperatures Could Affect Your Christmas Travel

Published on December 25, 2025

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a cold health alert for Christmas Day, affecting regions across south-west England. Forecasters have warned that while the weather will remain largely dry, the possibility of a white Christmas is “highly unlikely” this year. The UKHSA’s yellow health alert, in effect from 6:00 PM on Christmas Day until 12:00 PM on December 27, highlights the risk of cold-related health issues due to low temperatures.

Alongside the cold alert, the Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for strong winds affecting south-west England and much of Wales. These winds are expected to reach peak gusts of up to 65 mph along exposed coasts. Travelers and commuters alike are urged to prepare for potential disruptions caused by the wind and low temperatures, which could affect transport and power supplies.

What Does the Cold Health Alert Mean?

The cold health alert is a precautionary measure issued by UKHSA, which has expressed concern about the increased risk to vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly, young children, and those with existing health conditions. As temperatures drop, particularly during the night, there is a heightened risk of cold-related illnesses, including hypothermia and frostbite, especially in rural areas.

The agency has also highlighted that health and social care services may experience increased demand, with vulnerable people likely to seek healthcare assistance during this time. To mitigate the risks, the UKHSA is advising people to keep warm, stay indoors when possible, and take extra care when venturing outside in the chilly conditions.

Met Office Weather Warnings: Wind and Risk of Disruptions

In addition to the cold health alert, the Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for wind affecting south-west England and Wales, valid from 4:00 AM to 11:59 PM on Christmas Day. Winds will be coming from the east to the north-east, with gusts expected to reach 45-55 mph in many areas, and up to 65 mph along exposed coastal regions. The strong winds, combined with large waves along the coast, are expected to cause disruptions, including delays to transport services and potential power outages.

The Met Office warns that these winds could have an impact on both transport and infrastructure, particularly on coastal roads and bridges. Travelers should plan for longer journey times and remain cautious on roads, especially if traveling near the coast.

Minimal Chance of a White Christmas

Despite the cold conditions, the Met Office has confirmed that the prospect of a white Christmas is “highly unlikely.” While there is some potential for a small amount of rain to clip the south-west of England, the chances of snow are very low. Forecasters expect Christmas Day to bring a mix of dry and cloudy weather, with clear spells in the south, particularly in the morning.

The highest temperatures expected on Christmas Day are forecast to be around 6°C in south-east England and 7°C in north-east England. While temperatures will be on the cooler side, they will not dip low enough to bring significant snowfall. Frost and freezing temperatures are expected in rural areas overnight on Christmas Day, with the possibility of temperatures as low as -6°C in parts of Scotland and -4°C in rural Wales.

Impact on Travel and Commuting: What You Need to Know

For those planning to travel on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, the weather conditions could have a significant impact on travel times and safety. The RAC expects Christmas Eve to be the peak day for festive getaway trips, with an estimated 4.2 million cars on the road. The busiest times for traffic are likely to be between 1:00 PM and 7:00 PM, with major roads such as the M25 and M5 expected to be congested.

Commuters should be aware that the wind and cold temperatures could cause disruptions to transport services, particularly in the south-west and Wales. Drivers are advised to prepare for possible delays, especially on exposed coastal roads and bridges, where high winds could cause travel difficulties. Additionally, large waves along the coast could pose hazards for those traveling in coastal areas.

For tourists visiting the UK, the cold weather may also affect sightseeing plans. While many attractions will remain open, outdoor activities, especially in rural or coastal areas, may be disrupted due to the wind and freezing conditions. Tourists are encouraged to check the weather and travel advisories before heading out, particularly if they plan to visit outdoor attractions.

Key Points to Remember:

• Cold Health Alert: A yellow cold health alert has been issued for south-west England from 6 PM on Christmas Day until 12 PM on December 27.
• Wind Warnings: The Met Office has issued a yellow wind warning for Christmas Day, with gusts of up to 65 mph in some areas.
• Minimal Snowfall: Despite cold temperatures, the chance of a white Christmas is highly unlikely, with little to no snow expected.
• Travel Disruptions: Wind, rain, and freezing temperatures may cause disruptions to transport services and infrastructure.
• Travel Tips for Tourists: Tourists visiting the UK should plan ahead for weather-related disruptions, especially if traveling in the south-west or coastal areas.

Travel Tips for Tourists and Commuters:

1. Allow Extra Time for Travel: With heavy traffic expected on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, be sure to leave early to avoid delays. Particularly, plan for longer travel times on major roads like the M25 and M5.
2. Prepare for Wind and Cold: If you’re traveling in the south-west or coastal areas, be mindful of the strong winds. Wear appropriate clothing to stay warm, and ensure your vehicle is prepared for winter conditions.
3. Check Weather and Travel Updates: Keep an eye on local weather updates and travel advisories. The Met Office and RAC are excellent resources for real-time travel information.
4. Use Public Transport When Possible: For tourists, public transport may be a more reliable option during periods of extreme weather. Check for any service disruptions or delays.
5. Stay Safe on Coastal Roads: If you’re driving in coastal regions, be cautious of high winds and large waves, particularly on exposed roads and bridges.
6. Check Attraction Availability: Tourists planning to visit outdoor attractions should check ahead for any weather-related closures or delays. Indoor attractions will remain open, but outdoor tours and experiences might be disrupted.

Conclusion: Planning Your Christmas Day Travel in Cold Conditions

With a cold health alert and strong wind warnings in place for Christmas Day, UK travelers need to plan carefully for their journeys. While the possibility of a white Christmas is low, the cold and wind will still present challenges for both local commuters and tourists. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, it’s important to allow extra time for your journey, stay informed about weather conditions, and take necessary precautions to stay warm and safe.

As the festive season continues, the weather will add an extra layer of complexity to travel plans across the UK. By following the advice outlined above, both locals and visitors can better navigate the winter conditions and make the most of their Christmas travel experiences.

Disclaimer: The Attached Image in This Article is AI Generated