A festive cold snap could be on the cards for Christmas, offering a break from the heavy rain which is currently lashing parts of the UK and causing severe disruption.

While there is no sign of any immediate let up in the torrential downpours that have led to flash flooding in places, forecasters say it looks like the weather may turn drier and colder going into Christmas Day.

Although uncertain how long any “quieter, somewhat colder spell” will last, there is a possibility that it could last to the end of next week, says the Met Office.

However, it is likely the weather will again become more milder and changeable, signalling the return of rain and strong winds.

In the meantime, a severe yellow weather warning is in force across a swathe of the south of the country during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.

Heavy rain threatens to cause traffic delays as a result of surface spray and flooding.

Looking ahead, Sky News weather presenter Kirsty McCabe said: “In the run up to Christmas the weather is set to settle down, which should help those travelling.

“However, the ground is very wet and any further spells of rain could lead to flooding, especially for southern counties of England.

“At the moment, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day look set to be largely dry with just a few showers in the North.

“It will be chilly with overnight frost and fog.

“However, there is an outside chance an area of low pressure could bring a wet and windy night for Santa on his sleigh.”

The Met Office said: “How long any such quieter, somewhat colder spell lasts is very uncertain, but there is a possibility that it could last to the end of next week.

“However, it seems more likely that the weather will become more changeable again with near normal temperatures, particularly in the north and west, with more spells of rain and strong winds.

“Southeastern areas may well have longer dry spells.”

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