Colder conditions are now covering all areas, with little change into the weekend; daytime temperatures will be rooted in single figures and overnight temperatures falling well below freezing in many places.

Met Office Chief Meteorologist, Frank Saunders, said: “Snow has already settled in parts of eastern Scotland and over higher ground in northeastern England. Areas such as Dartmoor and Bodmin Moor in the southwest have also seen rain turning to snow and accumulating as it bumps into the cold air covering the UK; some sleet and snow is falling to lower levels too but mostly not settling.

“Snow showers are expected to continue today, with the potential for further accumulations over higher ground. Where the showers fall as rain there is a risk of icy patches forming overnight with temperatures widely dipping below freezing. A number of National Severe Weather Warnings have been issued and these are likely to be updated over the coming days, so stay up to date with the forecast for your area.”

Remaining cold next week

The UK is likely to remain in a north easterly air flow with the cold regime continuing into next week. While there will be a good deal of dry, sunny weather for many, showers remain possible, particularly in eastern coastal areas, and these could be wintry at times.

It will become increasingly unsettled and less cold in southern and central areas next week, but it will probably remain cold with further coastal wintry showers in the north.

The UKHSA has issued yellow and amber cold-health alerts for the health sector covering all regions of England through until the 5th December.  

Snowfall in late autumn or early winter doesn’t generally linger because ground temperatures broadly remain relatively high, especially compared with values in late winter, after the ground loses more of its warmth.

Prepare for the cold

Dale Hipkiss, National Network Manager at National Highways, said: “Keeping a kit of essential items like a torch and warm clothes, in your vehicle, can be vital in case you and your passengers become stranded. Freezing conditions bring so many hazards such as snow and ice, please take every possible step to understand your journey in advance and allow extra time when travelling. Keeping a kit of essential items like a torch and warm clothes, in your vehicle, can be vital.

“Plan ahead for your journey, check weather forecasts, and if weather conditions do become challenging whilst travelling, adjust your driving behaviour and take extra care. If you do unfortunately find yourself in an unsafe or vulnerable situation and need assistance please contact the emergency services. 

“We have a guide to travelling in severe weather on our website. It’s also a good idea for people to check their vehicles, such as tyres, coolant and oil levels, etc. before heading out to reduce the risk of breakdowns.”

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