Met Office warns of 'widespread snow' with 'significant' showers possible this week

The Met Office forecast warns of 'widespread snow' with 'significant' showers possible this week. This weekend has already seen temperatures drop, along with mist and cloud rolling in across Greater Manchester.

But the long range forecast suggests that snow could hit parts of the UK by the end of the coming week. Looking further into January, there is a rising possibility of colder conditions - including ice and snow.

Here's what the weather might look like as we head into a new week.

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The Met Office says: "High pressure will remain in charge at first, whilst sitting to the north or northwest of the UK. Many areas will often be dry if rather cloudy, however occasional light rain or drizzle is likely, especially on some east-facing hills. The best of any sunshine in sheltered western and perhaps southern areas and still rather chilly for most.

"Towards mid-month, the high will likely decline or reorientate itself to the west or northwest of the UK, potentially allowing colder air with snow showers to filter south across the UK and/or for frontal systems to approach from the southwest. The latter scenario would also bring the potential for significant snow and also perhaps some heavy rain to parts of the south.

"Either way a more unsettled outlook towards mid-month looks probable."

"Through this period, compared to normal, there is an increased chance of colder conditions along with the associated impacts from low temperatures, ice and snow," continues the weather forecaster. "Whilst colder weather is more likely to dominate, there is also the possibility of further frontal systems at least encroaching from the west or southwest,