Brits are poised to be hit with at least eight inches of snow and ice later today (January 17) as the big freeze arrives in earnest.
Temperatures are likely to plummet to a chilling -10C in places, with the Arctic blast expected to wreak travel chaos across the UK.
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for the South of England, which will remain in place until 10am.
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In Cornwall in particular, rain and sleet could turn to snow later on this morning.
And north of the border, Scots are warned to expect blizzard conditions until 10am tomorrow (January 18) with heavy snow showers likely in the majority of the country for much of today.
WXCharts maps show that there could be more than eight inches of snow falling in Scotland in the next couple of days, possibly reaching ten inches on Thursday or Friday.
Forecasters say the weather is expected to cause travel chaos throughout the country, and commuters should be prepared for disruptions, delays and cancellations to public transport services.
The Met Office forecast for today states: "Cold with wintry showers, some heavy, mainly across northern and western Scotland, Northern Ireland and parts of Wales and western England. Dry with sunny spells elsewhere."
For the rest of the week, it adds: "Wintry showers on Wednesday, especially NE Scotland with heavy snow here. Hard frost overnight. Fewer showers on Thursday but still cold. Milder conditions for N. Ireland on Friday; dry, cold elsewhere."
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The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a cold weather alert of its own, meanwhile, due to the risk of snow and icy conditions that could have a serious impact on health.
People are urged to try to stay warm and look out for those most vulnerable and at risk of the effects of the cold.
Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at the agency said: "Cold weather can have a serious impact on health, particularly older people and those with pre-existing health conditions, as it increases the risks of heart attacks, strokes and chest infections.
"During this period, it is important to check in on family, friends and relatives who may be more vulnerable to the cold weather.
"If you have a pre-existing medical condition or are over the age of 65, it is important to try and heat your home to at least 18C if you can."
Met Office chief meteorologist Jason Kelly added: "Cold, icy and sometimes snowy conditions are in the forecast this week with the UK seeing more of a north-westerly regime, with temperatures well below average for the time of year.
"Wintry showers are likely at points through the week in the north of England. Warnings have been issued and ice is likely to be a hazard for much of the week with some tricky travel conditions possible.
"Maximum temperatures will largely only reach the low single figures with temperatures below freezing through most nights this week."
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