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Snow has fallen in parts of London as temperatures as a cold snap hits the UK.
Snowfall was spotted in Highgate, Kensington, Hendon and Slough, defying predictions that the wintry conditions would not strike the capital.
Multiple Met Office yellow warnings are in force for snow and ice across the country, with 25cm of snow expected in the North.
Another ‘Beast from the East’ could reach Britain in December as meteorologists monitor forecasts after this week’s temperature plunge.
Snow was also seen hitting the train tracks at Slough Station (Picture w8 media)
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This week’s weather will be ‘markedly colder’ with ‘harsh frost’ anticipated later this week, the Met Office has warned.
The piles of snow could lead to power cuts and travel delays on roads, the meteorologists said, possibly stranding some vehicles and passengers.
Where are weather wanings in place?
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.
Up to 25cm of snow is expected in the North after wintery weather reigned down overnight (Picture: Owen Humphreys/PA Wire)
UK ice and snow weather forecasts today (Picture: Metro)
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.
Snow hit Camden this morning (Picture: Jeremy Selwyn)
Residents clear snow from their driveways and paths in Consett (Picture: North News & Pictures Ltd)
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.’
Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at [email protected].
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