Met Office warns 'cold and wintry spell' incoming as they tell Britons to prepare for 'Arctic air'

This move towards more extreme temperatures will demonstrate a departure from the nation's current milder weathers, as many have grown accustomed to mercury middling and grey, cloudy skies.

However, the Met Office has produced its forecast for tonight, which reads: "To begin with, high pressure remains in charge, bringing cloudy conditions for many with the possibility of fog overnight."

It expects tomorrow to yield "similar" results, although the north might experience "windier" conditions, strengthening later on Friday, which will introduce brisk Arctic air.

Saturday is set to bring "a band of rain" across southern areas, while colder conditions will continue to batter the north - with the chance of even spotting some snow dusting hilltops.

The Met Office has predicted the start of "some unsettled and much colder" weather, with deputy chief meteorologist Rebekah Hicks claiming: "A notable early winter cold spell will arrive across the north from Sunday and will likely reach all parts of the UK by midweek.

"Temperatures will drop as a northerly airflow develops, bringing in colder Arctic air. This introduces the possibility of snow, initially over high ground in the north from Sunday, with gusty winds also a potential hazard."

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"At this stage, there is much uncertainty in what we might see next week, with computer models showing a number of different scenarios."

Hicks added: "There is a lot of uncertainty in what might happen after Sunday, but there are a number of scenarios which could bring some more widespread rain, along with some hill snow and stronger winds.

"It is possible that there may be some more widespread snowfall across lower ground, but the chance of this for any given region is low at this stage.

"What we do know is that the whole of the UK is likely to experience a spell of several days of cold, potentially disruptive weather next week.

"Warnings for wintry hazards, including snow and ice, are possible, so it’s important to stay up to date with the latest forecast."

Ahead of the harsher conditions, Age Scotland’s Chief Executive Katherine Crawford has said that the more extreme weather could impact certain individuals more.

She said: "There are simple steps we can all take to ensure no one feels they are facing this period alone. Bad weather may make it difficult for people to get out for essential shopping or medical appointments, so we’d urge everyone to check in on older family, friends and neighbours during this period to find out if they need any extra support.

"A friendly phone call or an offer to help with shopping, collecting prescriptions or de-icing paths could be a lifeline for someone who feels isolated at home during this cold spell."

Individuals searching for help or advice are advised to call Age Scotland’s free helpline on 0800 12 44 222.