UK forecast: Britons brace for Arctic freeze as -2C chill prompts cold weather warning

Christmas weather: UK to feel ‘sub-zero’ as cold wind sweeps in

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The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued a cold weather warning for the Christmas period, urging Britons to stay warm and keep their homes well-heated. Temperatures are forecast to drop to as low as -2C in large areas of the country. The warning comes as snow dusted northern Scotland, with more snowfall expected to grace southern regions of the UK through Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Agostino Sousa from UKHSA said: “It’s important to check on those who are more vulnerable to cold weather, including older neighbours or relatives – especially those living alone or those who have serious illness.

“Remind them to heat their home to at least 18 Celsius, 64.4 Fahrenheit. It’s also helpful to check they have enough food and drinks and any medicines they need.”

Met Office’s Chief Meteorologist Frank Saunders said the weather front causing temperatures to plummet could also trigger further snow and ice on higher grounds.

Mr Saunders said: “A cold air mass across the north of the UK will mean temperatures could fall as low as -2C in areas of north and east England.

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“As a weather front moves up from the southwest we could see snow falling on its leading edge as it meets this cold air, bringing snow and ice risks particularly to higher ground in the north of England.

“This will be coupled with some gusty winds which means it will feel even colder for many.”

BBC Weather forecaster Matt Taylor said that while not everyone will get to experience a White Christmas, it will remain mostly dry although a bit cloudy for the southeast and southwest of England.

Mr Taylor said: “Lots of cloud, misty and murky over the hills, a pretty grey start for Christmas Day for many.

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“Brightest conditions in the far north of England and into Scotland, where one or two of those snow showers will continue.

“Rain getting a bit heavier into Northern Ireland, Wales, and the southwest later in the day.

“Here though, quite a mild day winds coming in from a south to southeasterly direction.”

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The BBC Weather forecaster added: “Southeast wind is actually coming from a pretty cold direction across the northern half of the country.

“That’s what’s going to keep it on the cold side today.

“Temperatures at the moment are only around 4C or 5C.

“Factor in the strength of the wind, and it is going to feel sub-zero, a big contrast to the feel of things further south.”

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