Nearly a foot of snowfall is expected in some parts of Britain as temperatures are forecast to plunge to -12C.
Another ‘Beast from the East’ could reach Britain in December as meteorologists monitor forecasts after this week’s cold snap.
This week’s weather will be ‘markedly colder’ with ‘harsh frost’ anticipated later this week, the Met Office has warned.
An Amber warning is in place with as much as 25cm (10 inches) of snow that could potentially fall, according to the Met Office.
Where are weather wanings in place?
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The Met Office said that ‘significant accumulations are possible over the North York Moors and parts of the Yorkshire Wolds, resulting in an Amber snow warning which will be in force for much of Thursday’.
Multiple Yellow National Severe Weather Warnings for ice and snow have also been issued for the coming days, covering Northern Ireland, parts of Wales, northern and southwest parts of England and much of Scotland.
And while snow is not anticipated in London, temperatures are expected to drop to -1C tonight.
Why is it so cold?
Neil Armstrong, chief forecaster at the Met Office, said: ‘Cold Arctic air from the north is firmly in charge of the UK’s weather, bringing the first notable cold snap of this autumn and giving an early taste of winter weather.
‘As a result, winter hazards are likely through the next few days, with snow and ice a particular hazard, and the coldest conditions likely on Wednesday and Thursday.
‘Wintry showers will affect areas exposed to the brisk northerly wind, in particular Northern Ireland, southwest Wales, southwest England, northeast England and across the northern half of Scotland.
‘Whilst not all places will see lying snow, where showers are most frequent accumulations of 2-5 cm will be possible.
‘On higher ground in Scotland, 15-20 cm could accumulate, and potentially as much as 15-25 cm over the North York Moors and Yorkshire Wolds.’
The Met Office said ice will be an ongoing hazard in the coming days.
Armstrong added: ‘Temperatures are well below average for the time of year and could get as low as -11°C in rural parts of Scotland on Thursday night, with daytime temperatures generally in low single figures for many.
‘With clear skies, overnight ice could create some particularly tricky travel conditions.’
The public has been urged to ‘wrap up warmly’ ahead of the colder weather – particularly older people, younger people and those with long-term health conditions.
Dr Ron Cook, NHS 24 executive medical director, said: ‘With icy conditions expected, we urge everyone to wrap up warmly and take extra care when outside.
‘Cold weather can be particularly challenging for older people, young children, and those with long-term health conditions, so please check on neighbours and loved ones to ensure they have what they need to stay warm and safe.
What is a Cold health alert?
They are government warnings issued when cold temperatures are likely to have an impact on people’s health and wellbeing.
Issued by the UK Health Security Agency, they are influenced by Met Office forecasts and aim to give early warning to carers, health professionals, emergency services, government departments and the population in general.
The core alerting season for cold runs from November 1 to March 31, while a summer alert system for heat runs from June 1 to September 30.
‘Simple steps like wearing sturdy footwear and allowing more time for journeys can help prevent slips and falls.
‘Also remember cold air can also make breathing difficult for people with asthma or COPD.
‘Keep your medication handy and try to limit time outdoors during severe cold spells.’
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