More snow to return to the Highlands tomorrow afternoon
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An Amber warning has been issued by the Met Office, with continued impacts expected from snow and ice in the coming days.
It is accompanied by a number of yellow National Severe Weather Warnings highlighting a mix of wintry hazards, including snow, sleet, ice and rain.
Northern England is the focus for the Amber ice warning with a prolonged period of freezing rain possible on Sunday.
There is a good chance of some travel disruption, as well as power cuts and injuries from slips and falls on icy surfaces.
The warnings have been issued ahead of a marked change in weather type for much of the UK, with milder, wet and windy weather moving in from the south on Sunday and into Monday.
Met Office Chief Meteorologist Neil Armstrong said: “While the northerly airflow and cold conditions that have dominated our weather in recent days are coming to a close, there’s a potent mix of wintery hazards on Sunday which has resulted in several warnings being issued.
“As this milder air from the south moves north, there’s a continued chance of snow, even to low levels, in the north of the UK.
"Freezing rain, which is a relatively rare phenomenon in the UK, is likely to impact areas near the Pennines and could result in some power interruptions and travel disruptions.
“Within the Amber warning area, freezing rain could lead to the build up of 2-3mm of ice on untreated surfaces, which is likely to cause treacherous travel conditions and road closures.”
Conditions are expected to remain unsettled next week, with some strong winds and prolonged periods of rain. A Yellow warning for rain has also been issued for much of the south and southwest of England, as well as southern Wales.
The warning is in force from late on Sunday through to early Tuesday, with in excess of 150mm of rain possible for high ground on Dartmoor, but more widely 30-80mm within the warning area.
Peter Jenkins, Director of Campaigns at Water UK, said: “The recent freezing weather has been very disruptive to many people. The last thing we want is for people to experience further disruption as temperatures rise this weekend, putting many homes at risk of burst pipes due to freeze-thaw.
“That’s why we’re urging everyone to check their water pipes are well insulated now, and to follow our simple tips to protect homes against weather conditions.
"If you’re concerned about the impact of freeze-thaw or the cold weather, we encourage you to get in touch with your water company for further help and advice.”
