Snow and blizzards 'set to hit UK' » Environment » 24dash.com

An Arctic chill will grip the country this weekend with temperatures plunging below zero in some areas, forecasters said today.

Parts of the country can expect blizzards as icy winds and wintry showers sweeping south from Scotland put an end to this week's unseasonably mild weather.

MeteoGroup UK said the wind chill will send temperatures below zero on Friday and Saturday night, with snow predicted for Scotland and North Yorkshire.

John Hutchinson, forecaster at MeteoGroup UK, said: "You will feel a sharp drop in temperature on Friday and by the end of the night there will be sleet and snow in northern Scotland.

"Places like the North Yorkshire Moors and Norfolk will see wintry showers, with strong winds all the way down the east coast.

"Daytime temperatures on Saturday are likely to be between 3 and 6 degrees centigrade, falling to below zero at night."

Gordon Lishman, director general of Age Concern, said: "With predictions of snow and very strong winds for this weekend we are urging vulnerable older people, who are more susceptible to the cold, to take extra precautions to stay warm and well.

"Older people can help keep warm during this cold snap by wrapping up well with several layers of clothes and staying as active as possible. Eating good, healthy meals will also help to provide energy throughout the day and sipping hot drinks will also help.

"Fear of increased winter bills is causing more than half of older people to cut back on essentials, such as food and energy, which could put their health at risk.

"We would advise any older person worried about making ends meet to find out if they are entitled to claim benefits, as this could help take the worry out of meeting their bills."