Wintry weather, which came relatively late to the UK this year, is set to continue across Eastern areas of the UK in Particular. The harsh conditions have led government officials and forecasters to issue warnings.

Heavy snowfall, sub-zero temperatures and icy conditions, which took hold over the past week after a relatively mild start to the winter, are set to continue across much of the UK. Fresh snow is falling over large parts of England and Scotland, and meteorologists from the Met Office have warned that heavy snowfall over swathes of Scotland, as well as Central, Northern and Eastern England could cause problems early in the week.

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Northeast England and Scotland are expected to be heaviest hit, with higher areas worst affected. The Met Office has issued an amber Severe Weather Warning covering these regions, which could see up to 25 cm of fresh snow fall today.  

Met Office Chief Forecaster Martin Young said on Monday, "Many parts will stay icy over the next few days, and there is the continuing risk of some snow at times almost anywhere. The heaviest snow, however, is expected across parts of eastern England and eastern Scotland through Sunday night and Monday, bringing the risk of disruption in some areas."

Although last week forecasters had speculated that conditions would ease after the weekend, Mr Young said the weather could remain challenging until the end of the week. He advised those in the North and East to "keep up to date with the latest weather information and plan ahead during this spell of wintry weather."

Although the risk of snow is expected to reduce for a couple of days in the middle of the week, icy conditions will continue to cause disruption, as temperatures will not rise much above freezing, even during daylight, across much of the UK.  

On Friday (18th January) Defra reminded farmers that HMRC cleared the use of red diesel for gritting and snow clearing purposes in recognition of "the vital role played by farmers in helping to keep rural roads clear". The decision was made in December, in light of work done by farmers to maintain access to isolated schools, homes and hospitals in remote regions over past years.

Last week, when South Wales bore the brunt of the wintry conditions, Environment Minister John Griffiths reminded farmers of "to take reasonable arrangements to protect their [animals'] welfare and prevent suffering where livestock might be at risk."

The minister said, "Animals kept outside must have access to dry lying areas. Famers should ensure livestock is protected from the severe weather and that food and water is available. Farmers will be best placed to identify and source feed and water for their animals in times of difficulty, for example by co-operating with neighbours if supplies run short or access is difficult."