BRITS shivered as temperatures dipped to a bone-chilling -7C last night - and an Arctic blast on the way means it'll only get COLDER from here.
Wales last night faced its coldest night of the winter so far, as the mercury took a tumble to -6C in the country, and Brits endured freezing temperatures.
But the whole country felt the freeze last night. It was below zero everywhere, with dipping -7C temperatures in Oxfordshire and the south coast of England.
The Met Office said: "Last night was the coldest night of the Winter so far for Wales, with Sennybridge recording a low of -6.0 °C during the early hours of Friday."
Read our weather live blog for the latest news and forecasts
Louis Allwood 15 minutes ago
Parts of country to see snow soon
Some places will soon see snow as the freezing blast holds the country in its grip.
Met Office forecaster Clare Nasir said: “There will be Arctic air streaming down from the north delivering snow showers, particularly in the far north-east of the country."
However, in most places it'll stay cold and mostly bright for the rest of the month.
Louis Allwood 45 minutes ago
'Cold weather can have a serious impact on health'
Agostinho Sousa, a consultant at the UK Health and Security Agency, said the cold can have a deadly toll.
"Cold weather can have a serious impact on health, particularly for older people and those with heart and lung problems, as it increases the risks of heart attacks, strokes and chest infections," he said.
"Remind vulnerable relatives and neighbours to heat their home to at least 18C - particularly if they have reduced mobility, are 65 or older, or have a health condition.
"Should they need to go outside, it's important for them to wear shoes with a good grip."
Louis Allwood Today, 02:00
Experts reveal ‘heating hacks’ to save money as temperatures dropThe heating experts at PlumbNation highlight the importance of heating your home, especially when the temperature drops below freezing:“During periods of cold weather, the water in your pipes freezes and expands, which can lead to a build-up of pressure and end up bursting your pipes. Then when the ice starts to thaw out the water floods out, and this can end up costing thousands to fix (a lot more than your heating bill!). “Using a thermostat with a timer offers a simple and speedy solution to controlling your heating effectively and is a better option than leaving your heating on low all day, as this isn’t considered to be an effective form of heating.“There are other ways to stop your pipes from freezing, such as buying inexpensive pipe lagging and tank jackets to provide insulation.”Expert Tips to Save Money on Your Heating: Upgrade your thermostat Stop draughts! Add an extra layer (or two!) Introduce soft furnishings Turn your thermostat down By 1°C Clean your radiators Don’t dry your clothes on your radiator Check your radiator covers Get your boiler serviced
Louis Allwood Today, 01:30
Top tips on defrosting your windscreen during the winter
Mix up a solution of water with a teaspoon of salt and pour it over icy areas
A mixture of three parts of vinegar to one part of water will also do the trick
DON’T pour boiling water onto frozen car windows
DON’T use anything other than a car-specific scraper to remove the frost
Prevent windscreen frost by soaking an old towel in a solution made up of water and table salt, or a mix of one part of water and two parts of alcohol, then place it over your car windows the night before.
Louis Allwood Today, 01:00
How should you prepare for safe driving in snow?
Before heading off in the snow, plan your journey carefully and keep up-to-date with local weather reports. You should also:
Allow more time than you usually would and ensure all the snow is clear from your vehicle. It is actually against the law to drive with snow on your car. Carry a lock de-icer with you to clear your locks. Make sure any auto wiper control is switched off before turning the ignition on. If they are frozen to the screen the control fuse will blow. Check your tyres for adequate tread so the grip is sufficient. If conditions are very bad you may want to consider using snow socks or chains. Use a good screenwash that protects down to at least -35C to prevent the water from freezing.
Being gentler on the throttle and brakes and slowing down, particularly on rural or ungritted routes, can help ensure a safe and trouble-free journey, advises the RAC.
Louis Allwood Today, 00:30
Useful tips to stay warm in the winter
Brits are set for a winter freeze with forecasters predicting temperatures as lows as -3C, so it’s important you wrap up warm!
Dress for warmth Heat up your living area Double-check your insulation and cracks Take advantage of natural heat – during the day open the curtains and blinds and letting in the natural sunlight Keep your bed warm – you can just opt for placing hot water bottles wrapped in a fleece or wool cover Keep your metabolism running
Louis Allwood Today, 00:00
Weather outlook Monday to Wednesday
Mainly dry and often fairly cloudy for most, but occasional sunshine in the east.
Some rain in the northwest, especially in the northwest of Scotland.
Temperatures near normal for January.
Milica Cosic 23rd Jan 2022, 23:30
Experts reveal ‘heating hacks’ to save money as temperatures drop
The heating experts at PlumbNation highlight the importance of heating your home, especially when the temperature drops below freezing:
“During periods of cold weather, the water in your pipes freezes and expands, which can lead to a build-up of pressure and end up bursting your pipes. Then when the ice starts to thaw out the water floods out, and this can end up costing thousands to fix (a lot more than your heating bill!).
“Using a thermostat with a timer offers a simple and speedy solution to controlling your heating effectively and is a better option than leaving your heating on low all day, as this isn’t considered to be an effective form of heating.
“There are other ways to stop your pipes from freezing, such as buying inexpensive pipe lagging and tank jackets to provide insulation.”
Expert Tips to Save Money on Your Heating:
Upgrade your thermostat Stop draughts! Add an extra layer (or two!) Introduce soft furnishings Turn your thermostat down By 1°C Clean your radiators Don’t dry your clothes on your radiator Check your radiator covers Get your boiler serviced
Milica Cosic 23rd Jan 2022, 23:00
Exact date white stuff will return
Temperatures dropped as low as -7C yesterday in one of the coldest weeks this winter, as experts are predicting that snow could arrive as early as next weekend.
The Met Office has warned of a ‘severe frost’ and icy conditions for today's forecast a deep freeze sets in, across large areas in England and Wales.
And forecasters are now suggesting that Scotland and the Northeast of England could see snow from this Thursday, January 27.
The Met Office has also said there could be more flurries within the fortnight.
Milica Cosic 23rd Jan 2022, 22:30
An early taste of spring soon?
The bitter chill may not last for much longer.
Some weather models are suggesting signals for cold next month are getting weaker.
It means that if the high pressure continues, there could be some balmier weather on the way.
Emphasising that the forecast isn't clear enough yet to make an accurate prediction, Brian Gaze of The Weather Outlook said: "I wonder if we could have an early taste of spring?"
Milica Cosic 23rd Jan 2022, 22:00
Long-range forecast for February 3 - 17
The long-range forecast for February 3 to 17 reveals: “Early February is likely to see a north/south split with more settled and cloudy weather expected in the south.
“There is an increased likelihood of more unsettled conditions becoming established.
"Temperatures are likely to be near or slightly above average although short-lived colder interludes are possible."
Forecaster Clare Nasir said: “There will be Arctic air streaming down from the north delivering snow showers, particularly in the far north-east of the country."
Meanwhile, WXCharts says there's a stern chance for snow in northern parts of Scotland throughout next week.
Milica Cosic 23rd Jan 2022, 21:30
Wetter and wilder week ahead
The weather will be mostly cloudy from Tuesday, with rain and showers moving southwards on Thursday.
According to John Hammond, chief meteorologist for Weathertrending, there are signs of "a more lively start to February".
He said: "It looks wetter and windier at times than for much of the previous month.
"We may see colder weather start to make more definite inroads from the north through the early days of the new month, turning some of that rain to snow."
The Met Office has said there could be more snow flurries within the fortnight.
Milica Cosic 23rd Jan 2022, 21:00
A more turbulent February
John Hammond, chief meteorologist for Weathertrending, said a quick blast of arctic air is headed for the UK this week.
The forecaster added Brits could be in for a more turbulent February, with a mix of wet, and windy weather with even more early signs of snow.
Mr Hammond told The Sun: "Briefly on Thursday a pulse of Arctic air will clip some northern and eastern areas, bringing some wintry showers to the Scottish mountains and perhaps the highest parts of northern England."
Until then, things will stay cloudy and cold in the south on Monday while Northeast England, eastern Scotland and Northern Ireland are set to feel brighter and milder.
Milica Cosic 23rd Jan 2022, 20:30
Three more dry days before heavy rain
BRITAIN is set to remain dry for the next three days - before heavy rain and some snow sets in.
The white stuff is predicted for parts of the UK from Thursday as an arctic pulse sends January temperatures plummeting.
The mercury plunged as low as -7C on Friday in what has been one of the coldest weeks this winter.
And experts predict Scotland and the Northeast of England could see snow from Thursday, January 27.
Milica Cosic 23rd Jan 2022, 20:00
Warning as smartphones could stop working
Your phone's battery life could be in jeopardy if temperatures drop too low. If a phone gets too hot or cold, it may glitch to help regulate its temperature.
In some cases, your phone's battery may also suddenly decrease or even turn off completely - even if you had a nearly full charge.
Luckily, any temperature-related glitches usually subside once your phone is back in a stable environment.
Sometimes this just means your phone needs to be back in a warmer environment.
But if you're going to be out in the cold for a prolonged period of time, you may want to turn your phone off to protect the battery.
You could also move your phone to an internal coat pocket, as your body heat could help keep the device warm.
If you work outdoors in the Winter, you could invest in a phone case with insulation to protect the longevity of your device.
Milica Cosic 23rd Jan 2022, 19:30
Driving safely in icy conditions as temperatures plummet
With the bitterly cold weather sweeping the UK, it’s important that drivers take care and are well prepared before they take to the roads on frosty mornings.
Emergency transport specialists CMAC Group have put together an expert advice piece on how to prepare for driving in wintery conditions, ideal for commuters and workers who rely on driving for work.
Before winter begins we recommend that all vehicles are fully serviced, ensuring:
All lights are clean and working The battery is charged All windows are clean Windscreen wipers are in good working order Appropriate screen wash is used Tyres are free from bulges and tears with no cord exposed, correctly inflated and with a safe tread depth All fluids are topped up and antifreeze used where required Winter tyres have been installed
Milica Cosic 23rd Jan 2022, 19:00
Snow predicted for early Feb
Weather forecaster WXCharts has predicted snow in early February, with up to four inches (10cm) hitting parts of Scotland.
It has also forecast widespread rain, set to batter the UK by February 4.
WXCharts is predicting up to 30mm of rain in parts of Scotland and up to 10mm across the UK.
Speaking to Express.co.uk, Mr Dale said: “As we approach the end of the month, things do change.
“We lose the high pressure… the winds will start picking up.
“We’ll have to watch the moving targets and see what develops but I think the emphasis is basically: change of month, change of weather.”
Milica Cosic 23rd Jan 2022, 18:30
UK weather outlook for Tuesday and Wednesday
It will be a brighter day on Tuesday with spells of sunshine and variable amounts of cloud cover. Some spots of of drizzle cannot be ruled out.
There will be early sunny spells on Wednesday however cloud cover will tend to build bringing spells of rain across northern Britain and Northern Ireland.
Milica Cosic 23rd Jan 2022, 18:00
Tomorrow's weather forecast
Early patches of mist will tend to lift and clear during the morning.
It will then continue to be another dull but dry day for most areas with grey and overcast skies although some brighter spells may develop at times.
There will be spells of rain across western Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Milica Cosic 23rd Jan 2022, 17:30
Tonight's weather
A dry but largely overcast evening with thick cloud and patches of mist and fog will form.
Most areas will continue dry but cloudy overnight with a widespread chance of mist and fog.
Cloud will break at times and some clear periods will develop. Spells of rain will spread into north-west Scotland.
Milica Cosic 23rd Jan 2022, 17:00
Long range forecast – January 31 to February 14
The Met Office in its long-range forecast has predicted snow could fall towards the end of January into early February.
From January 31 to February 14, the Met Office warns that “some colder interludes remain possible, bringing a risk of occasional snow, this most likely over northern hills.”
The week beginning February first will see grim weather, and the coldest parts of winter still to come.
Milica Cosic 23rd Jan 2022, 16:30
How to stay warm when outside
With the weather getting chillier and frostier, you’ll want to wrap up warm.
Here are some good tips for staying all snugly and cosy when outdoors:
Prewarm your clothes. Invest in some quality thermals. Fleece leggings. Hand warmers. Cover every inch of skin. Eat fatty foods. Thermal flask. Keep moving. Keep hydrated. Keep your head covered. Tactical scarf-wearing – including keeping your nose and mouth covered
Louis Allwood 23rd Jan 2022, 15:29
Arctic air streaming from the north to deliver snow showers
Some places will soon see snow as the freezing blast holds the country in its grip.
Met Office forecaster Clare Nasir said: “There will be Arctic air streaming down from the north delivering snow showers, particularly in the far north-east of the country.”
However, in most places it’ll stay cold and mostly bright for the rest of the month.
Louis Allwood 23rd Jan 2022, 14:31
Edinburgh forecast for today and tonight
It will be a largely cloudy day but a few bright intervals are possible.
Mostly dry except for the odd spot of rain across the Southern Uplands. Maximum temperature 8 °C.
A mostly cloudy night with a little light rain across the Southern Uplands.
A few clear intervals, mainly towards the Central Belt and east coast. Minimum temperature 4 °C.
Louis Allwood 23rd Jan 2022, 14:00
Snow predicted for early Feb
Weather forecaster WXCharts has predicted snow in early February, with up to four inches (10cm) hitting parts of Scotland.
It has also forecast widespread rain, set to batter the UK by February 4.
WXCharts is predicting up to 30mm of rain in parts of Scotland and up to 10mm across the UK.
Speaking to Express.co.uk, Mr Dale said: “As we approach the end of the month, things do change.
“We lose the high pressure… the winds will start picking up.
“We’ll have to watch the moving targets and see what develops but I think the emphasis is basically: change of month, change of weather.”
Load more entries…