Met Office in warning that Arctic blast is on the way

WINTER is set to return with a vengeance next week with snow, ice and frost forecast, according to the Met Office.

While today and tomorrow will be relatively mild for the time of year, the Met office’s top forecaster Robin Steel warned that an Arctic blast is heading our way from the start of the week.

“We already have weather warnings in place from Monday for snow, ice and frost, “Mr Steel said last night.

“Instead of the mild south winds we have at the moment, Monday will see the beginning of much colder weather, powered by a west-north-west airstream that will bring wintry showers to most of the Province.”

And snow is not ruled out, Mr Steel told the Belfast Telegraph last night.

“The main risk is to the high ground north of Belfast, the Antrim Hills and the Sperrins.

“But don’t be surprised if there is snow in Belfast,” the expert warned.

The cold spell is set to last for several days, with temperatures falling to between 2-4 degrees Centigrade, with a widespread frost.

The big chill will hit the whole of the island of Ireland — but the north will be most affected, a Met Eireann spokesman said yesterday.

“Early next week will become increasingly blustery and showery, with showers turning wintry later on Monday into Tuesday with falls of sleet and snow increasingly more likely.

“The focus of the wintry showers will be across the north and west with some accumulations likely — but all areas will be at risk with some thunder occurring locally too.

“It will feel much colder, with maximum temperatures of only 3C to 6C — but feeling even colder with an added wind chill effect.

“There will be frost and ice also, mainly for sheltered areas owing to sustained brisk winds,” he added.