The Met Office has said there is a “significant snow” forecast for the south of England and has warned that it is not “out of the question” the wintry weather could escalate into a storm.
There are extended weather warnings for Scotland, Northern Ireland and northern England and there is a possibility of blizzards.
Met Office meteorologist Alex Burkill told Sky News that on Wednesday south of the M4 corridor there is a risk of “significant snow” which could see between 1 and 3cm.
He added, “Further north we have snow showers that are piling down which will lead to some further build up across Scotland.”
He said that Dyce in Aberdeenshire, Scotland has been hit with 14cm of snow, adding, “Where we have lying snow and clear skies tonight we’re going to see temperatures dropping as low as -15C tonight.”
The Met Office told LondonLovesBusiness.com, “A number of National Severe Warnings for snow and ice have been issued, further warnings are likely to be issued throughout the week.
“The initial focus of the most impactful snow is in north-eastern areas of the UK, as well as some Northern Ireland and southern and central areas of England and Wales.”
Met Office Chief Meteorologist Matthew Lehnert said, “Snow, ice and low temperatures are the main themes of this week’s forecast, with the UK under an arctic maritime air mass.
“Snow could lead to some travel disruption, with a chance some rural communities in the north could be cut off.
“The focus for the snow moves to southern England and South Wales tomorrow and some may wake up to a few centimetres of snow, with the south coast and far southwest likely to see a mix of rain and sleet. Further snow and hail showers are also expected along northern coasts, especially in northern Scotland.
“During the afternoon, a further spell of sleet and snow is likely to develop across southern England and South Wales which could cause travel disruption into the evening. The impact of lying snow and ice on untreated surfaces may have an impact on Thursday morning travel.”
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 in winter.
“Freezing conditions bring so many hazards such as snow and ice and take every possible step to understand your journey in advance and allow lots of extra time when travelling to prepare for the unexpected.
“It is therefore always important to plan ahead for your journey, listen to the weather forecasts, and if weather conditions become challenging, adjust your driving behaviour and take extra care.”
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