Met Office gives update on when cold snap will hit UK with 'wintry showers and freezing fog' forecast

A cold weather alert has been issued ahead of a cold snap in the UK - with temperatures set to plummet to below freezing.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a yellow level cold weather alert covering the whole of England starting this weekend. The alert will come into place at 9am on Saturday (January 6) and will last until 12pm on Tuesday.

The Met Office predicts the weather will be 'much colder than recently' with an increased chance of 'freezing fog and wintry showers'. Widespread frost is expected as temperatures drop to below average for this time of year.

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The UKHSA yellow alert warns that due to the cold weather, 'minor impacts are probable' across the health and social care sector. There is likely to be an increased use of healthcare services by the vulnerable and there will also be an 'increase in risk in mortality amongst vulnerable individuals'.

The cold health alert service has four colour states - with yellow being level 2. The sudden drop in temperature will come after Storm Henk brought heavy rain and strong winds to much of the UK.

A spokesperson for the Met Office said on its website: "It will become rather cold next week with lower-than-average temperatures across much of the country. Frost is likely overnight and, given the ground moisture, calm conditions, and long nights, there is also a risk of fog.

"UK Health Security Agency has issued a cold weather alert covering the whole of England valid from 9am on 6th January to 12 noon on 9th January. Temperatures likely to be below average especially overnight with much more overnight frost than of late.

"Ice is likely to be an issue given the very