Temperatures are set to plummet across the UK this weekend as the Met Office issues widespread snow and ice warnings, bringing an abrupt end to unseasonably mild conditions that have seen southern England bask in 14°C sunshine.
Yellow weather warnings are now in force for Scotland, Northern Ireland, and parts of northern England and Wales. Central and northern Scotland face the heaviest snowfall, particularly on higher routes, while ice poses hazards on untreated surfaces as overnight temperatures drop below freezing.
Northern Ireland remains under a snow and ice warning with concerns over dangerous driving conditions. In England, warnings cover the Pennines and elevated northern areas, extending into parts of North Wales. Southern England and much of the Midlands will escape the worst snowfall but face sharp temperature drops and widespread frosts.
The dramatic shift will see temperatures crash from recent highs of 12-14°C to between 0°C and 4°C across most of the country. Overnight lows will plunge several degrees below freezing in warning areas. Wind gusts of 30-40mph in coastal and upland regions will make conditions feel even colder.
Motorists should check road conditions before travelling and prepare for delays and difficult driving. Local authorities are deploying gritting teams ahead of the icy conditions. The cold spell will persist for several days, with temperatures not expected to moderate until early next week.
Source: BBC