Snow as winter returns

Snow will fall in the South-East today and tomorrow, as biting Arctic winds bring winter back.

Near gale-force north winds will bring snow to the Chilterns and high ground as far south as Kent and Sussex. Sleet and near-freezing rain will affect other areas.

The winds are due to arrive this afternoon, the Met office says, and will last until Sunday. Further north, blizzards are likely to hit much of Britain, bringing dangerous driving conditions as far south as the Midlands.

"The temperature in the South will probably be around 7-8C but in areas exposed to the wind it will feel much colder," said the forecaster. "It is a reminder that winter is still here."

Prolonged rain is unlikely because of the high winds, which will keep the showers moving. On Sunday, a band of rain will reach London around dusk. Gales of up to 70mph and heavy snow will hit Scotland.