ARCTIC FREEZE TO BATTER UK
Big chill will last three months
BRITAIN is set for a freezing winter with snow and ice bringing misery to millions.
Forecasters say the country will be hit by a cold snap which will hit hard until at least the end of January.
Temperatures could dip as low as -16C as polar air sweeps in from the Arctic.
Snow has already hit the north of the UK this weekend.
And the big freeze could stay for the next three months.
The Met Office warned of “increased risks” of cold weather from the Arctic between now and HELENE PERKINS the new year. Health chiefs fear it could cause an increase in deaths among the elderly and other vulnerable groups.
And travellers are being warned to expect chaos on the roads plus rail and airport delays.
Snow flurries are expected to last until Tuesday, with many areas waking up to frost as temperatures dip to -1C.
Low-level snow has been forecast for the weeks ahead.
A Met Office forecaster said: “Frosts look more widespread until Tuesday, with showers affect- ing coastal areas, giving hail, sleet and perhaps snow at times. Wednesday will be cold.”
The Met Office three-month forecast said: “Lower-than-average temperatures are more probable than higher-than-average.
“Our outlook suggests an increased risk of below-average temperatures and an increased risk of cold weather impacts.”
Brian Gaze from The Weather Outlook added: “Forecast models suggest an increased chance of cold spells.
“Snow is expected during this month over high ground in the north, and possibly at low levels at times.”