Key Points
- Met Office issues yellow snow and ice warnings across nearly all of Scotland from 4pm on Thursday, February 12, to midday Friday, February 13, 2026.
- Glasgow and Edinburgh expected to see 1-2 cm snow accumulations in low-lying areas, with up to 10 cm in higher spots.
- Temperatures to plunge below freezing, reaching as low as -2°C in areas like Wick, Biggar and Fort William overnight.
- Snow showers descending to lower levels Thursday evening, leading to icy conditions on untreated surfaces.
Glasgow (Edinburgh Daily News) February 16, 2026 – Scotland braces for an Arctic blast as the Met Office warns of widespread snow and ice affecting Glasgow and Edinburgh from 4pm Thursday.
Temperatures across the region are forecast to tumble below freezing, with potential lows nearing -12C in colder snaps, bringing hazardous conditions to urban and rural areas alike.
When is snow expected to hit Glasgow and Edinburgh?
The yellow weather warnings cover 32 council areas, starting at 4pm on February 12 and lasting until midday on February 13, according to The Daily Record and The Mirror. Snow showers, previously limited to high ground, will spread to lower levels including Glasgow and Edinburgh by Thursday evening.
Accumulations of 1-2 cm are anticipated in low-lying parts of both cities, while hills above 300 metres could see 2-5 cm, and localised spots up to 10 cm, as reported by Edinburgh Live and Edinburgh Evening News.
As reported by Kathryn Chalk of Met Office, a cloudy evening will bring rain, sleet and snow from the west overnight, with 3-7 cm expected around 150m and 10-15 cm above 400m.
What temperatures are forecast during the cold snap?
Temperatures will drop rapidly, with towns such as Wick, Biggar and Fort William reaching -2°C overnight. In Edinburgh, conditions start at 3°C at 3pm Thursday, falling to 2°C by 7pm and 0°C overnight, leading to icy surfaces Friday morning.
How severe could the ice risks become?
The Met Office highlights that quick temperature falls will cause ice on untreated surfaces, increasing slip and fall injuries. Brisk southerly winds will exacerbate the unpleasant conditions across Scotland.
What impacts might the Arctic blast bring?
Residents in Glasgow and Edinburgh face disrupted travel and potential power issues from the snow and ice. The warnings emphasise preparation for hazardous weather affecting daily commutes and outdoor activities.
According to The Daily Record, only a few islands like Arran and parts of the Hebrides may avoid the worst, while the rest of Scotland contends with this wintry onslaught.
