The Met Office has warned that snow may be on its way for areas of the UK next, as temperatures plummet.
The national forecasters are predicting a “notable early winter cold spell” arriving from the north from Sunday night, which will see the whole of the country freeze.
Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Rebekah Hicks explains: “A notable early winter cold spell will arrive across the north from Sunday and will likely reach all parts of the UK by midweek.
“Temperatures will drop as a northerly airflow develops, bringing in colder Arctic air. This introduces the possibility of snow, initially over high ground in the north from Sunday, with gusty winds also a potential hazard.”
The experts have also warned of “widespread” snowfall in areas of lower ground, which would be early for this time of year.
Rebekah said: “There is a lot of uncertainty in what might happen after Sunday, but there are a number of scenarios which could bring some more widespread rain, along with some hill snow and stronger winds.
“It is possible that there may be some more widespread snowfall across lower ground, but the chance of this for any given region is low at this stage. What we do know is that the whole of the UK is likely to experience a spell of several days of cold, potentially disruptive weather next week.
“Warnings for wintry hazards, including snow and ice, are possible, so it’s important to stay up to date with the latest forecast.”
Today:
Much of Scotland, Northern Ireland and northern England will have a largely cloudy day, with the risk of rain in the west. Drier and brighter for the rest of England and Wales, with sunny spells. Temperatures a little above average.
Tonight:
Cloud and patchy rain will move southwards across Scotland, Northern Ireland and into northern England. Showers following, these wintry over the hills. Clear spells further south, with a patchy frost.
Saturday:
Cloud and patchy rain will continue to move southwards across England and Wales. Sunny spells and scattered showers elsewhere, falling as snow for parts of Scotland. Colder in the north.
Outlook for Sunday to Tuesday:
Sunny spells and wintry showers in the north. Cloudier elsewhere, with outbreaks of rain and stronger winds developing at times. Perhaps some snow over the higher ground. Colder for many.
