The Met Office is forecasting “severe snow” next week as colder conditions are set to replace the recent mild weather.
After a foggy and damp start to the post-Christmas week, temperatures are expected to plummet, potentially bringing significant snowfall to parts of the UK.
Since Boxing Day, mist and fog have lingered across much of the country, with areas such as Gloucestershire, the Midlands and Yorkshire experiencing particularly dense conditions.
However, by next week, weather patterns are forecast to shift dramatically.
The Met Office predicts that by the start of next week snow will begin to fall across Scotland, particularly in the north, before moving southwards through the middle of next week.
Maps also show potential for significant snow and hail in northern Scotland during the early hours of Tuesday, December 31.
“Rain, stronger winds, and some snow already across Scotland may on Tuesday become more severe and start to push southwards,” the Met Office said.
“This could bring a chance of snow to other parts of the UK, along with colder conditions more widely.”
While the cold snap is expected to bring widespread wintry conditions, it may not last long.
By the end of next week, milder weather is likely to return, with temperatures recovering to near-average levels for January.
Looking further ahead, the Met Office anticipates a “fairly changeable picture” for January, with wet and windy weather focused in the north and west, while the south and east may see more settled conditions.
Nonetheless, residents are urged to prepare for potential disruption, particularly in areas forecast to see significant snowfall. The Met Office also advises keeping an eye on updates.
Full list of areas forecast for severe snow:
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Northern Scotland (including Highlands and Islands)
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Parts of central Scotland
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Northern England (hill and upland areas)
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Potentially spreading to southern Scotland and northern Wales
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Localised areas in the Midlands depending on the weather front’s progression
Check the Met Office website for the most accurate and up-to-date information for your area.