Time is running out for drivers to ensure they have de-icer and an ice scraper at the ready for a frozen windscreen.
New analysis by leasing comparison website Leasing.com has identified the precise date on which freezing conditions are most likely to return.
Based on five decades of weather patterns, Sunday 22 November 2026 is the day when UK motorists can expect to start scraping ice off their windscreens.
Along with the inconvenience of needing to spend five minutes clearing ice before setting off, the first frozen windscreen of winter brings additional risks for drivers.
Failing to clear your screen properly can lead to a fine or points on your licence, while using the wrong method of de-icing could result in expensive damage.
Less than three weeks to go
Leasing.com looked at 50 years of weather data, examining the daily minimum temperature data for central London.
Researchers used 1 September as the starting point for the cold-weather period, then worked chronologically to establish the first date when the daily minimum temperature reached 0°C or below.
Across five decades, the first freezing temperature occurred an average of 82.14 days after 1 September, giving a likely date of 22 November.
The earliest occurrence of a minimum temperature reaching 0°C or less in central London happened on 16 October 1993. The latest occurred on 5 January 2003.
Take time to avoid a fine
Mike Fazal, CEO of Leasing.com said: “Drivers should allow extra time to fully clear their windscreen before setting off, rather than simply scraping enough ice away to see through. Failing to have a full view of the road and traffic ahead could result in a £1,000 fine and three penalty points.
“Don’t be tempted to use hot water as a quick fix for a frozen windscreen. The sudden temperature change can risk cracking the glass, potentially turning a five-minute job into a costly replacement”.
Rule 229 of the Highway Code states that before setting off, drivers must be able to see properly, meaning snow and ice must be cleared from every window.
Motorists also need to ensure that their lights are clean, and number plates are clearly legible. Mirrors should be clear and windows thoroughly demisted, too.
Avoid the temptation to leave a car running unattended while defrosting. Not only does it create a potentially easy target for car thieves, but rule 123 of the Highway Code states that leaving a car running and unattended is illegal – and can potentially result in a fine.
ALSO READ:
Winter motoring: get your car prepared for cold weather
Are winter tyres worth the expense for driving in the UK?
What do all the warning lights on your car’s dashboard mean?
