Met Office issues snow update as Arctic blast sends temperatures tumbling

Colder conditions come as high pressure looks set to drag cooler air to the country.

In a long-range forecast from October 31 to November 9, the Met Office said: “Following the introduction of some colder air to many areas at the start of this period, with the potential for snow showers in at least northern Scotland, high pressure looks to be the dominant feature during the first part of November.

“The main uncertainty is in the position and orientation of the high, which will determine whether the UK remains in a relatively cold air mass or whether somewhat milder conditions return.

“Given the presence of high pressure, overnight frost and fog are more likely than normal, with temperatures perhaps more likely to be below average overall.

“Towards mid-November, there are hints that the high pressure may relax its grip on the UK, allowing rather more unsettled conditions to become established.”

A recent WXCharts map showed Britain coveredv in icy blue as a band of freezing air sweeps across the country on November 3.

Scotland could witness the coldest temperatures, with mercury plummeting to as low as -2C.

Northern England, Scotland, and parts of Northern Ireland will also bear the brunt of the cold snap.

However, the Met Office’s forecast for the short-term does not predict snow.

Looking ahead to Monday, the UK’s national weather service said: “Widely cloudy with hill fog in places.

“Outbreaks of rain and drizzle possible almost anywhere, though many central and eastern areas seeing only small amounts. Milder than Sunday.”

In its Tuesday to Thursday update, the Met Office added: “Often cloudy for most with fog possible overnight for some.

“Generally dry in the south but rain spilling across northern regions later in the week. On the mild side.”