There are a number of yellow National Severe Weather Warnings for snow and ice in place which run into Saturday morning. Warnings may well be updated over the weekend so keep up to date with the forecast in your area.

There will be showers during Saturday around western and northern coasts. These could turn wintry over higher ground. It will be a dry day elsewhere with plenty of sunshine. It will continue to feel cold with temperatures not reaching much more than 2 °C or 3 °C, although it will be less cold in the far southwest.

Met Office Chief Meteorologist, Andy Page, said: “A low pressure system will bring less cold, but more unsettled weather for southern parts of the UK on Sunday. It will be a cloudier day with some rain, but also a chance of snow at first over the Midlands. It will be brighter in the north, but still with a risk of showers in coastal areas. Still feeling cold away from the southwest with temperatures once again in low-single figures.

“There continues to be some uncertainty over the exact conditions for the start of next week. While, milder air - with some rain and possibly snow - is likely for the southern half of the UK on Monday, the weather models do not agree on how far north this mild air might go.  There are several possible solutions.”

The UKHSA has issued yellow and amber cold-health alerts for the health sector covering all regions of England through until the 5th December.  

Snowfall in late autumn or early winter doesn’t generally linger because ground temperatures broadly remain relatively high, especially compared with values in late winter, after the ground loses more of its warmth.

Prepare for the cold

Dale Hipkiss, National Network Manager at National Highways, said: “Plan ahead for your journey, check weather forecasts, and if weather conditions do become challenging whilst travelling, adjust your driving behaviour and take extra care. If you do unfortunately find yourself in an unsafe or vulnerable situation and need assistance please contact the emergency services. 

“We have a guide to travelling in severe weather on our website. It’s also a good idea for people to check their vehicle’s tyres, coolant and oil levels before heading out to reduce the risk of a breakdown.”

British Veterinary Association Junior Vice President Dr Elizabeth Mullineaux said: “It’s important to take extra precautions to keep our furry friends warm and safe when the temperatures plunge. Even simple things like leaving your dog outside a shop in extremely cold weather can be stressful for them. Cats too, should not be left outside all night. Domestic rabbits and guinea pigs are vulnerable to the cold despite their warm coats, which is why owners need to be vigilant and take steps to ensure their hutches are protected from the snow, cold draughts and winter rain. If owners have any concerns, they should speak to their local vet.”

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