The North East of England is set for a distinctly wintry week, with cold temperatures, overnight frosts, icy mornings and the risk of snow or sleet showers affecting parts of the region. From the coast to inland towns and rural areas, residents should prepare for below-average temperatures and potentially tricky travel conditions as Arctic air continues to influence the UK’s weather.
This detailed forecast covers what to expect across Newcastle upon Tyne, Durham, Northumberland, Middlesbrough and surrounding areas, helping households, commuters and businesses plan for the days ahead.
A Cold Start to the Week for the North East
The week begins with very cold conditions, particularly overnight and during the early morning hours. Clear spells are allowing temperatures to drop sharply, leading to widespread frost, icy pavements and untreated rural roads.
Daytime temperatures are expected to remain close to freezing, with only limited sunshine providing brief relief. Coastal areas may experience a sharper wind chill, making conditions feel colder than the thermometer suggests.
Day-by-Day Weather Outlook
Sunday: Bright but Bitterly Cold
Sunday brings a largely dry day across much of the North East, with some winter sunshine developing. However, temperatures will struggle to rise above 0–1°C, and the cold will quickly return after sunset.
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Widespread frost overnight
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Icy patches on roads and pavements
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Small risk of wintry showers near the coast
Monday: Frosty Morning, Cold Day
Monday starts with another hard frost, particularly inland and in rural parts of County Durham and Northumberland. Sunshine is likely at times, but it will remain cold throughout the day.
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Daytime highs around 1–2°C
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Cold northerly or north-easterly breeze
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Risk of icy travel early and late
Tuesday: Increasing Cloud and Wintry Showers
Cloud cover increases on Tuesday, bringing a greater chance of snow, sleet or cold rain, especially later in the day. Inland areas stand the best chance of seeing wintry precipitation.
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Temperatures: 2–3°C
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Patchy snow possible on higher ground
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Cold rain near the coast
Wednesday: Chilly with Mixed Weather
Wednesday stays cold and unsettled, with a mix of cloudy spells and occasional showers. Whether precipitation falls as rain or snow will depend on elevation and time of day.
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Temperatures remain below seasonal average
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Frost likely again overnight
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Icy conditions returning after dark
Thursday: Cold Persists Across the Region
Thursday sees little change, with continued cold air dominating the North East. Showers are possible, though many areas remain dry for long periods.
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Daytime highs of 3–4°C
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Brisk winds increasing the wind chill
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Continued risk of overnight frost
Friday and the Weekend: Gradual Change but Still Cold
Towards the end of the week, conditions become slightly more unsettled. There may be more frequent showers, with rain more likely at lower levels but snow still possible inland, especially overnight.
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Temperatures slowly edging towards 4–5°C
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Windy at times
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Cold nights continuing
Regional Breakdown: What to Expect Where You Live
Coastal Areas (Tyneside & Northumberland Coast)
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Stronger winds making it feel colder
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Occasional coastal snow or sleet showers
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Higher risk of icy pavements near the shoreline
Inland & Rural Areas (County Durham & Northumberland)
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Coldest overnight temperatures
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Greater chance of snow settling briefly
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Fog patches forming in valleys during clear nights
Urban Centres (Newcastle, Sunderland, Middlesbrough)
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Slightly milder due to urban heat
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Icy mornings remain a concern
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Cold rain more likely than snow during the day
Travel Advice for the North East This Week
With icy conditions expected on multiple mornings, motorists are advised to:
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Allow extra time for journeys
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Be cautious on untreated rural roads
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Watch for black ice, especially before 9am
Pedestrians should also take care, as pavements may remain slippery well into the morning.
How Long Will the Cold Weather Last?
Forecast models suggest the cold spell will dominate much of the week, with only gradual moderation in temperatures later on. While this does not currently appear to be a prolonged severe freeze, conditions remain colder than average for the time of year, and further wintry episodes remain possible.
Final Word: Wrap Up and Stay Weather-Aware
This week’s North East England weather forecast highlights a return to proper winter conditions, with frost, ice and the risk of snow affecting daily life. Staying weather-aware and prepared will be essential, particularly for early-morning travel and outdoor plans.
For ongoing updates, keep an eye on local forecasts and weather warnings, especially if temperatures dip further or snowfall becomes more widespread.