Snow, ice and freezing temperatures are forecast for parts of the UK this weekend (Image: Getty)
UK households are being warned to brace for another bitterly cold snap this weekend as temperatures are forecast to drop as low as -7C.
says a high pressure system is moving across the country bringing easterly winds, and a risk of snow and ice.
The national forecaster has warned that Scotland is likely to see the coldest temperatures, plummeting to -7C in rural areas, while southern parts of England are also expected to see over the weekend.
Day-time temperatures will be “slightly below” the average maximum of 7C for February, with the colder climes increasing the chances of snow.
Some is likely in parts of southern England and south Wales from Friday, and icy patches and overnight frost is also expected in some places.
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A yellow cold health alert has been issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) for several areas across England, including the North East, North West, Yorkshire and the Humber, and the South East from 9am today (Friday) until 9am on Tuesday.
chief meteorologist, Paul Gundersen, said: “While some areas will see showers or some patchy rain on Friday and through the weekend, there will be the potential for some sleet or snow as temperatures drop, mostly over higher ground in central and southern areas. The cold will be accentuated at times by brisk easterly winds.
“There will be variable, and at times large amounts of cloud over the coming days with the clearest and sunniest weather across the northwest of the UK. There will also be icy patches and overnight frost in places.
As temperatures drop, UK households are being urged to stay safe and take precautions to protect against the cold weather.
A key piece of advice from the is to stay active – even if you are stuck inside because of the weather – as this will help your body to keep warm, and thereby help to stave off winter illnesses like colds, flu and more serious health problems.
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If you’re unable to get out and about due to the weather it is recommended that you keep moving while indoors and make sure you get up and move around every hour.
The forecaster says: “With many of us having to spend more time at home it can make it harder to keep active. It’s important to continue to do what you can to stay active as this can help with both your physical and mental health.
“Try to keep moving when you are indoors, try not to sit still for more than an hour or so. Break up your time spent being inactive by walking around your home or standing up from your chair when you are on the phone.
“It doesn’t matter what you do to keep active, as long as it’s something you enjoy and keeps you moving. There is strong evidence that people who are active have a lower risk of heart disease, stroke, depression and can also reduce the risk of falling.”