Forecasters have indicated an icy commencement to the new year, with wintry precipitation anticipated across much of the UK. Celebrants are advised to bundle up as near-freezing temperatures are predicted for New Year's Eve.
Edinburgh's famous Hogmanay festivities are set to take place, following last year's postponement. This proceeds amid yellow warnings for snow over northern Scotland.
"A cold New Year's Eve night for those who are celebrating, so extra layers will be needed," said the weather service.
Across the UK, the weather is set to be ideal for fireworks shows, with a lack of precipitation and good visibility. Temperatures are due to be chilly, meaning additional clothing a necessity, said forecasters.
Further north, skies will be cloudier, but this is not anticipated to impact visibility for seeing fireworks. "We are not looking at low cloud, mist or murk, so you ought to be able to see fireworks, just not stars," commented one forecaster.
Moving into Friday, weather warnings have been issued across Northern Ireland and from Wales, across parts of the north-west, the West Midlands and all the way to London and the majority of the south-east of England.
Going into the new year, it will be "chilly no matter where you are," commented forecaster Simon Partridge. The weather are forecast to fall even more as snow and gale-force winds are expected to hit the north of the country.
Around 10cm of snow is forecast to have accumulated in some areas by Friday morning, reaching up to 30cm on the most elevated routes and peaks.
Meanwhile, amber-level health advisories have been activated for the north-east and north-west of England. These are set to continue until noon on 5 January, with the mercury likely to fall to between 3C and 5C.
The health agency stated this meant the weather could to cause notable consequences across health and social care services. This involves a likely increase in the number of deaths among those with health conditions or those in the older age groups.
The advice for all is clear: to celebrate the new year in security, dressing for the cold is absolutely key.
A tech journalist and VR specialist with over a decade of experience covering emerging technologies and digital culture.