Brits are stepping into winter this week as thermometers plummet with the possibility of snow.
After a brutally-chilly weekend, the Baltic temperatures look set to continue, dipping below zero. People living in two parts of the country meanwhile were expected to see a sprinkling of the white stuff overnight.
Weather data from WXCharts showed patches of snow over Greater Manchester and near Inverness in the Scottish Highlands through Sunday night. The Met Office meanwhile has warned of continued cold temperatures from an Arctic blast which resulted in an incredible moon halo on Saturday as its rays were refracted by ice crystals, with lows of -1C in central Scotland, according to data from Ventusky.
Met Office deputy chief meteorologist Dan Harris said: “The most likely outcome beyond midweek is that rain from the west slowly moves east, with snow possible over higher ground, and a continued risk of showers over eastern parts. However, there is a chance that a more activeweathersystem arrives from the South-West, which would bring more widespread rain, stronger winds, and the potential for more significant snowfall should the air over the UK become sufficiently cold ahead of it."
Mr Harris added: “Either way, a continuation of colder than average conditions seems most likely, more details will become clear over the coming days.” For those who do miss out on the snow forecast, there's hope yet of a white Christmas this year.
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Bookies have slashed odds for a snowy Christmas, with as much as a 67% chance in parts. Betfred has already announced a chance for five Brits to become millionaires with a £5million draw if snow is seen falling anywhere in London on Christmas Day morning.
According to the Met Office, only a snowflake needs to be seen anywhere in the UK for it to qualify as a white Christmas. The last was in 2021, although the country hasn't seen widespread snow on the day since 2010.
UK weather forecast
Today:
Bands of rain, heavy at times across Wales and southwest England clearing southwards. Brighter skies following from the north but showers and hill snow affecting parts of Scotland and northeast England where it will also be windy.
Tonight:
Showers continuing across the north and east, but largely dry elsewhere with clear spells. Turning cold under the clear skies with a frost developing, mainly in the north.
Tuesday:
Sunny spells for many, but showers in places, mainly near coasts but potentially moving inland at times with some snow over high ground in the north. Feeling cold.