Snow Alert: Cold Weather 'Beast' To Hit UK

Britain is facing a weather front dubbed the "Beast from the East" next week - with heavy snow and sub-zero temperatures.

Temperatures could plummet as low as -6C around London as icy winds blow in over the eastern coast.

Forecasters are also predicting "lots of snow" from Monday - that could "obliterate" East Anglia and spread to southeastern areas.

By Tuesday and Wednesday there could be significant accumulation of snow along much of the eastern side of Britain.

Sky News weather presenter Jo Wheeler said snow which settled in the east tended to stay for longer.

"People should prepare for the cold weather and allow more time to get to work," Jo said.

"The snow could cause considerable disruption because of the accumulation in populated areas," she added.

Overnight frosts will continue throughout next week, with increasingly wintry showers turning from sleet into snow.

There were early reports of snowfall in Luton this morning.

Snow is continuing to fall on higher ground across Scotland, but will struggle to settle after sleet showers.

Weather warnings have been issued for Scotland and north-east England as ice is likely to form on untreated surfaces following rainfall.

Overnight the wind will ease and skies will clear, and temperatures will be close to freezing in most places.

A cold and frosty start is expected for the weekend, with plenty of sunshine in the south.