Lancashire is bracing itself for the first snowfall of winter just as schools reopen for the new term.
With temperatures plummeting this weekend, the first sign of snow could hit the region on Sunday afternoon.
According to forecasters, it will dry and brighter on Monday but another cold day with temperatures falling to minus 5 degrees.
From Tuesday onwards, there will be a mix of rain, sleet and snow throughout the remainder of the week.
Largely sunny and cold on Monday with isolated light snow flurries possible. Probably turning somewhat less cold thereafter with rain or snow, perhaps heavy, at times. Frosts and ice are likely.
MORE: Travel delays and train cancellations expected across UK as heavy snowfall hits parts
Met Office chief meteorologist Rebekah Hicks said: “Arctic air and brisk northerly winds are gripping the UK as we start the new year.
“Snow and ice warnings remain in force for many areas, with the risk of heavy snow showers, especially across northern Scotland and over higher ground elsewhere, though many inland areas will stay largely sunny and clear.
“Bitterly cold conditions will persist through the weekend and into next week, with daytime temperatures struggling to rise above freezing for some, and overnight lows dipping to minus double figures in places.
“We urge people to stay #WeatherAware, keep up to date with the forecasts and plan ahead as icy roads and slippery surfaces are likely.”
Meanwhile, the British Heart Foundation said cold weather can present specific risks for people with heart conditions because the heart has to work harder which can exacerbate existing health conditions.
The organisation said there are thousands of additional deaths from heart and circulatory disease in the winter months every year in the UK.
Ruth Goss, senior cardiac nurse at the British Heart Foundation, said: “Cold temperatures can increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes, and people with cardiovascular disease are also more at risk of serious illness if they get seasonal respiratory infections like flu.
“It’s especially important that people living with heart conditions are well prepared for the cold snap this winter by wrapping up warm and having their free flu jab.”
