UK weather forecast: More snow as -12C freeze to hit TONIGHT and 'Beast from the East II' circles

BRITAIN is set to be blasted with even more snow tonight as temperatures plummet to -12C.

The big freeze comes amid fears another Beast from the East could strike, with colder easterly weather expected to draw in later this month.

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Snow fell across England in the early hours this morning with Middlesbrough, Newcastle, Northumberland and Darlington all left with a blanket of the white stuff.

Sledgers made the most of the wintry conditions, while others battled to clear their driveways before setting off on the icy roads.

Meanwhile, parts of northern England, the Midlands and Wales are all set to get a covering of snow today, with tricky travel conditions expected.

Up to 5cm of snow could fall, according to the Met Office, which has issued a yellow weather warning for snow and ice which runs until 6pm on Saturday.

It covers the north east and north west of England, Wales, the West Midlands and Yorkshire and Humber, with temperatures as low as -12C in Scotland.

SNOW WARNING

Drivers have been told to expect tricky driving conditions where the snow falls, while pavements could also be slippery.

Trains are also likely to be affected and journeys may take longer.

The Met Office warning states: "Southward-moving areas of sleet and snow are likely to give 2-5cm snow over higher ground above 200-300m whilst at lower levels snow accumulations will be smaller and patchier in nature with 1-2cm snow for some."

Forecasters have also predicted that the first week of January will see Britain gripped by "harsh frosts" and bitterly cold icy conditions.

Next week, cold easterly winds will develop, bringing wintry showers, particularly around eastern parts, while hazardous freezing fog, frost and ice risks will all continue, the Met Office said.

Meteorologist Alex Burkill said: "Obviously it's very cold and it's going to stay cold through this week.

"Whilst there will be some wintry hazards around, it's not really until the end of the week until we see any significant snow."

Of potential dangers on the roads, RAC Breakdown spokesman Simon Williams warned: "The message for those who have to drive is to adjust their speed according to the conditions and leave extra stopping distance so 2021 doesn't begin with an unwelcome bump and an insurance claim.

"Snow and ice are by far the toughest driving conditions, so if they can be avoided that's probably the best policy."

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