An Arctic blast will sweep across the UK this week, bringing sub-zero temperatures as low as -12C in parts of Scotland, after an unusually mild weekend.
The cold snap follows a weekend when southwest England basked in temperatures reaching 16C on Sunday, a stark contrast to the coming chilly conditions.
The coldest weather is expected in the hillier parts of Scotland, where temperatures could drop to -12C on Monday night, with snow cover adding to the chill.
While Scotland’s higher ground braces for the coldest conditions, the rest of the UK will also feel the impact of the sudden Arctic winds.
Forecasters predict widespread sub-zero temperatures, particularly in rural areas, on Monday and Tuesday.
Met Office forecaster Marco Petagna explained that the drastic temperature change is due to icy winds blowing in from the Arctic, replacing milder southern air.
“It’s not unusual, given it’s winter now,” said Petagna.
After a mild weekend, the UK braces for a chilly start to the week with frost, icy patches, and snow in higher regions.“The colder air will move southwards, bringing wintry showers to the higher ground in Scotland, while southern parts will remain milder for now.”
The icy conditions are likely to cause travel disruption, particularly in hilly regions where frost, ice, and fog are expected to affect visibility.
In Wales, temperatures could plummet to -5C, while areas like the Peak District in England may see temperatures drop to -4C on Monday night.
“There could be widespread frost and icy patches in places, and fog on Tuesday morning,” Petagna warned.
As temperatures continue to drop, the northern UK could see snow on Tuesday as rain moves into colder air.
However, by midweek, temperatures are set to rise as warmer air from the west sweeps across the country, turning the snow into slush and replacing scarves and gloves with umbrellas.