UK weather latest: Snow, ice and gale-force winds to sweep Britain with 'treacherous' conditions forecast

'Danger to life' as strong winds hit country

Forecasters are warning of plunging temperatures and possible disruption (PA)

With snow, ice and gale force winds set to batter much of the country, forecasters have issued multiple weather warnings as the UK braces itself for more “treacherous” conditions.

The Met Office has warned of a possible “danger to life”, as strong winds are expected to hit much of the country this week, with the potential for gusts to cause flying debris.

Drivers have also been urged to take extra care on the roads as the wintry conditions spread.

Parts of Scotland and Ireland were covered in snow overnight, as temperatures fell as low as -2C. The most snowfall was seen in Tulloch Bridge in the Highland region of Scotland, where around 8cm of snow has fallen.

Temperatures are set to stay below 6C across the country, but will feel much lower, and may become “bitterly cold” on Tuesday night with further snowfall expected. Temperatures in parts of Scotland may hover around freezing.

Luke Miall, a forecaster at the Met Office, said: “The forecast for today is it’s likely to become a bit more wintry so we could be seeing snow for many areas, with northern and western areas seeing frequent showers.

“There could well be some travel disruptions and, with slippery roads and pavements, there could be some treacherous conditions to contend with, so we would advise people to take extra care.”

With yellow weather warnings in place across much of the country until Thursday, the Met Office has warned of travel delays and possible cancellations on public transport.

The snow is likely to affect Scotland and may spread to Northern Ireland, Wales, the north of England and the Midlands. Up to 6cm of snow may fall in hilly regions, and less on lower ground.

Showers are expected to continue into Wednesday. Conditions will be slightly brighter in London, with some sunshine but strong winds.

With very strong winds set to sweep across much of the country on Wednesday and Thursday, the Met Office has warned people to watch out for “flying debris” which could cause “danger to life”, injuries and “damage to buildings”. Power cuts, loss of phone coverage and travel delays are also expected.

Large waves and flying beach materials may also cause problems in coastal parts of Wales, forecasters warn.

As the cold weather continues, the NHS is likely to experience further strain, with more people than usual being hospitalised with flu.

Public Health England has urged anyone who is eligible to take up the flu vaccine.