UK weather: Snow and ice warnings issued by Met Office as -12C forecast

November has been extremely mild so far with temperatures 3-6C above average.

But that changed as northerly winds dragged cold Arctic air across the UK, dropping temperatures 3-6 degrees below average for mid-November.

The UKHSA’s yellow cold warnings will be in force in the Midlands and northern England until 08:00 GMT on Friday.

However, more severe yellow alerts were issued for the North West, North East, Yorkshire and the Humber during the same period.

These alerts are mainly for health and social care services, warning of “significant” impacts to more vulnerable members of society.

Extra demands may be placed on services to cope with cold weather.

Cold weather causes excess deaths, especially among people over the age of 65 or those with health problems. The UKHSA also warns it may affect some younger age groups.