Multiple Met Office Yellow National Severe Weather Warnings for ice and snow have been issued for the coming days, covering Northern Ireland, parts of Wales, northern and southwest parts of England and much of Scotland.

Met Office Chief Forecaster Neil Armstrong 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.”

In addition to snow, ice will be an ongoing hazard, particularly overnight in the coming days.

Neil Armstong 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.”

Updates to warnings are possible in the coming days, so stay up to date with the latest Met Office forecast.

An amber cold health alert is also in force from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), which focuses specifically on impacts for health and social care in England.

WeatherReady tips for colder conditions

With freezing temperatures and the potential for snow and ice in places, there are a number of simple steps you can take to prepare your home, garden, or business for the winter weather.

Our WeatherReady pages provide expert seasonal advice from carefully selected organisations to help keep you and your property safe, from steps to prevent sub-zero temperatures bursting pipes, to preparing your vehicle for the change in 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.  

“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.”

Warmer and wetter conditions into the weekend

Things will be drier for many by Friday, with temperatures gradually turning milder and rain reaching the west later in the day.   

There are signals for fronts of rain to cross from west to east on Saturday, with potentially further wet and windy weather for many on Sunday.

Keep up to date with the latest forecast for your area using our forecast pages. You can also follow us on Twitter and Facebook. Use our mobile app which is available for iPhone from the App store and for Android from the Google Play store.