The Manchester weather today remains firmly in winter mode as Arctic air continues to dominate conditions across Greater Manchester, bringing a bitterly cold start, icy surfaces and the risk of sleet or snow showers during the morning commute.
After Sunday night’s snowfall, temperatures dropped below freezing again overnight, leaving many roads and pavements icy at first light. Cloud has thickened compared with recent clearer nights, increasing the chance of wintry precipitation pushing through parts of the region during the morning.
Current conditions across Greater Manchester
Early readings across Greater Manchester showed temperatures sitting between –1°C and –3°C, with a raw northerly breeze making it feel significantly colder. Frost was widespread on parked cars, grass verges and untreated footpaths, particularly in suburban and higher-ground areas.
While some brighter spells have appeared at times, the overall feel this morning has been grey and wintry, with conditions remaining cold even where the sun briefly breaks through.
Snow and sleet risk during the morning
Forecasters say the highest likelihood of wintry showers falls during the late-morning period, when bands of precipitation may move eastwards across the region. In many areas this is expected to fall as sleet or cold rain, though snow remains possible, especially on higher ground.
Minor accumulations of 1–3cm cannot be ruled out in a few locations, while elsewhere any settling is expected to be limited. Even where snow does not settle, icy stretches remain a concern as temperatures hover close to freezing.
A yellow weather warning for snow and ice remains in force across Greater Manchester through the morning, highlighting the risk of difficult travel conditions.
Travel and local disruption
The combination of overnight ice and intermittent wintry showers has made for a challenging start for commuters. Traffic has been slow-moving in places, particularly on major routes including sections of the M60 and key approaches into Manchester.
Drivers are being urged to take extra care on bridges, slip roads and untreated side streets, while pedestrians are advised to watch for icy pavements, especially in shaded areas where frost has been slow to clear.
Manchester Airport has reopened fully following overnight disruption earlier in the week, though passengers are advised to remain alert for potential knock-on delays as cold conditions persist.
Public transport services across Greater Manchester are operating, though longer journey times are possible as vehicles navigate icy roads.
Manchester weather forecast for today
The Manchester weather today is expected to remain cold throughout, with temperatures struggling to rise much above 3–4°C this afternoon. Cloud will dominate for long spells, though brighter intervals may develop later in the day.
Wintry showers should ease as the morning progresses, but the cold air mass will linger, ensuring the day continues to feel raw and uncomfortable, particularly in exposed areas.
Tonight and the outlook for Wednesday
As skies clear again tonight, temperatures are forecast to fall back below freezing, allowing widespread frost to redevelop and increasing the risk of ice on untreated surfaces.
Wednesday is expected to stay cold, with rather cloudy conditions and the chance of a few further sleet or snow showers, though these should become more isolated later in the day. Even where it stays dry, the persistent breeze will keep the chill firmly in place.
Public guidance
With winter conditions continuing, residents across Greater Manchester are being urged to:
- Allow extra time for journeys
- Take care on icy roads and pavements
- Dress appropriately for prolonged cold exposure
The Manchester weather today reflects a stubborn Arctic pattern that shows little sign of shifting quickly, meaning caution remains essential as the region works through another cold and unsettled day.