With temperatures hovering around freezing in many parts, wintry conditions and icy roads are threatening to cause travel disruption, according to forecasters.

Amid the risk of injuries, pedestrians are also being warned to take care on slippery paths and pavements.

The freeze comes as temperatures plunged to to -10.7C (12.7F) in Aboyne, Aberdeenshire, overnight.

This beats the previous low of -10.5C (13.1F) recorded on 3 January in Braemar.

Meanwhile, a snow and ice warning is in place along almost the entire east coast of the country, while a separate snow warning has been issued along the length of Wales.

Sky News weather presenter Nazaneen Ghaffar said: “It’s going to stay cold for the coming few days, with wintry showers and the risk of ice.”

:: UK weather – The latest Sky News forecast

As the temperatures drop, Public Health England (PHE) has issued advice on how to cope with the cold weather, including keeping your home heated to 18C (64.4F) and keeping an eye on friends or neighbours who may be elderly or have health conditions.

Emer O’Connell, from PHE, said: “Every year millions of pounds are handed out by the Government to people who need support with keeping their home warm.

“But there is still more which goes unclaimed. Remember that you don’t have to be on other benefits to be eligible for some of these funds – if you are struggling to pay your heating bills, you may be entitled to help.”

She added: “It’s also really important to look out for others. People with heart and lung conditions, those who are over 65 and young children are at risk in cold weather. Those with conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s are also at risk as they may be less aware that they need to change their behaviour to stay warm.

“Pop in, see if they could do with a hand and see if there’s anything you could do to help. Cold weather can also mean that some people are isolated so it may be that a chat and a friendly face is all they need.”

Met Office meteorologist Alex Burkill said: “Winter’s here now properly. It feels like winter and the weather’s resembling it.”

Source: Read Full Article