18 November 2025
The AA is warning drivers to take extra care this week as the Met Office issues Yellow Warnings for snow and ice across large parts of the UK, including northern England and Scotland, from Wednesday 19 November through Thursday 20 November. Arctic air is sweeping south, bringing snow showers, icy stretches, and bitter wind chills.
This marks the first significant snowfall since the beginning of the year, increasing the risk of disruption for drivers who may not have faced such conditions for months.
“Stopping distances can increase tenfold on icy surfaces, so slowing down and leaving plenty of space is absolutely vital.”
Northern England:
- North Yorkshire, East Riding of Yorkshire, County Durham, Tyne and Wear, Northumberland
- Snow showers feeding inland from the North Sea could bring 2–5 cm at low levels and up to 15–20 cm on higher ground.
- Travel disruption is likely, with delays to road and rail services and possible power cuts.
Scotland:
- Highlands, Aberdeenshire, Moray, Angus, Perth and Kinross, Stirling, Argyll and Bute, Scottish Borders
- Snow accumulations of 2–5 cm are possible above 150 m, and 5–10 cm above 400 m, with up to 15–20 cm on the highest ground.
Shaun Jones, AA Expert Patrol, said: “When snow and ice hit, the roads can quickly become treacherous. Stopping distances can increase tenfold on icy surfaces, so slowing down and leaving plenty of space is absolutely vital. Drivers should plan ahead, stick to main routes, and allow extra time for their journey.
“Before setting off, make sure your car is winter-ready: clear all windows and mirrors, check your tyres and battery, and keep at least a quarter tank of fuel. Pack essentials like warm clothing, food, water, and a phone charger in case you get stuck.
“On the road, drive smoothly - avoid harsh braking or acceleration and pull away in second gear to reduce wheel spin. If you encounter a skid, steer gently into it and don’t slam on the brakes. Use headlights in heavy snow and avoid cruise control.
“Most importantly, if conditions look severe, ask yourself whether the journey is really necessary. Sometimes the safest decision is to stay put until the weather improves. Your safety and that of others should always come first.”
The AA’s key advice for winter driving:
- Plan ahead: Check forecasts and traffic updates; stick to gritted routes.
- Prepare your car: Clear snow and ice, check tyres, and carry emergency supplies.
- Drive gently: Use low gears, accelerate and brake gradually, and maintain a safe distance.
- Stay alert: Watch for black ice and adjust speed to conditions.
- Think safety first: Delay travel if warnings are in place.
Areas affected
North East England: Darlington; Durham; Gateshead; Hartlepool; Middlesbrough; Newcastle upon Tyne; North Tyneside; Northumberland; Redcar and Cleveland; South Tyneside; Stockton-on-Tees; Sunderland
Yorkshire & Humberside: East Riding of Yorkshire; Kingston upon Hull; North Yorkshire
SW Scotland & Lothian Borders: Scottish Borders
Central, Tayside & Fife: Angus; Perth & Kinross
Grampian: Aberdeen; Aberdeenshire; Moray
Highlands & Eilean Siar: Na h-Eileanan Siar; Highland
Orkney & Shetland: Orkney Islands; Shetland Islands
Strathclyde: Argyll & Bute