UK weather: Met Office issues snow and ice warning as London braces for rain

Disruptive snow and ice is possible on Sunday night and into Monday morning, forecasters have warned, as yellow cold health alerts are set to take effect in parts of the UK.

Ethan Douglas, operational meteorologist at the Met Office, said: "On Sunday night and Monday morning, there is the potential for some disruptive ice (given the preceding rain and cold night) and snow."

He said the cold conditions could create an ice risk on the roads, causing “potentially hazardous travelling conditions”.

"The snow risk will be constrained to Scottish hills, bringing difficult driving conditions there."

“The ice risk may be present more widely across the north of the UK, causing extended journey times and potentially hazardous travelling conditions.”

They will run from 9pm on Sunday until 9am on Thursday.

The agency said the weather conditions could mean an increased use of healthcare services and a greater risk to life for vulnerable people.

Paul Coleman, consultant in Public Health at the UKHSA, said: "This is the latest cold health alert of the season, and we can expect more as we move further into winter."

“Cold weather can have a serious impact on the health of some people, including those aged 65 and over and those with pre-existing health conditions, so it is vital to check in on friends, family and neighbours who are most vulnerable.”

Mr Coleman added that people should try to heat the rooms they use the most, if possible and dress warmly during colder spells.

Rain and some showers will sweep in on Sunday (Yui Mok/PA)

Frosty conditions are expected to persist as the alerts come into force on Sunday evening.

After a sunny start to Sunday, London was expected to see rain later in the morning before dry conditions return in the afternoon. The Met Office predicted a high of 11C.

The forecaster said heavy rain was expected on Monday night and into Tuesday morning.

A brighter and colder Sunday was expected in northern Scotland and Northern Ireland, with showers for some which could be wintry, bringing snow to the hills.

The cold conditions could lead to an ice risk on the roads (Will Meakin-Durrant/PA)

Cold conditions will continue on Monday, the Met Office said, with long sunny intervals for most.

Approaching cloud will dim the sunshine later in the day.

Meanwhile, those in the north east of Scotland should brace themselves for further wintry showers.