FREEZING fog is set to spark travel chaos across the UK as the country braces for fierce winds and snow in temperatures as low as -6C.
Ice and freezing fog are expected to cause havoc on journey times Wednesday morning, as chilly winds hit western regions and rain arrives in northern Ireland.
This comes as Braemar in the northern Scottish Highlands hit a bone-chilling -6.4C.
Two yellow weather warnings for wind have been issued across north and northwest Scotland from Wednesday afternoon until Thursday 6th December morning.
The spell of strong winds will affect areas including the Highlands and the Shetland and Orkney Islands, reaching up to 60mph with 75mph possible in places around the coast.
Mist and fog is also creeping into the Fens in eastern England.
Cambridgeshire Council cautioned all drivers to make sure their lights are switched on at the front and back before travelling and not to rely on the automatic light feature in their vehicles.
Delays are due to affect journeys on road, rail, air and ferry so being well prepared is essential.
The Met Office warned residents to check road conditions if driving and keep up to date with bus and train timetables to avoid any delays.
Powerful gusts can also cause power cuts, which are best dealt with if prepared for in advance. The forecaster suggests gathering torches, batteries, a mobile phone pack and other essential items.
For those living in coastal areas it is advisable to be aware of large waves, as even from the shore large breaking waves can pull you out to sea.
It is recommended to take extra care when walking near cliffs and to keep dogs on leads.
The forecaster added: “Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly: when a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area.”
This comes as the Met Office warned of turbulent weather across the week, warning “unsettled conditions will continue in to the weekend”.
A deep low-pressure system will probably cross the UK into Saturday, bringing strong winds and rain to some areas, it added.
From December 7th to 16th, wet and windy weather will affect many areas over the weekend, with colder, showery, and windy conditions following.
Regions affected by weather warnings
The Met Office has warned strong winds may cause disruption to travel so for anyone living in these regions preparing for the turbulent weather is essential.
- Highlands & Eilean Siar
- Na h-Eileanan Siar
- Highland
- Orkney & Shetland
- Orkney Islands
- Shetland Islands
- Strathclyde
- Argyll and Bute
High pressure is expected to take hold into the following week, bringing more settled weather with dry spells, overnight frosts, and morning fog in some regions.
From December 17th to 31st, high pressure is expected to dominate initially, especially in southern areas, bringing settled conditions.
Northern and northwest regions may still see occasional rain from frontal systems.
Towards the end of the month, high pressure may return, leading to drier and calmer weather, particularly in the south.