The big freeze: Britain set for snow as early as October

PA

Weather experts are warning Brits - and the transport networks - to prepare for another year of Arctic temperatures and snow, which could start as early as October.

The gloomy winter forecast has been predicted by Exacta Weather, with forecaster James Madden telling the Daily Express: 'As we head towards winter, I expect to see the first signs of some moderate to heavy snowfalls as early as October or November in certain parts of the UK.

'I expect December, January, and February to experience below-average temperatures, with the heaviest snowfalls occurring within the time frame of November to ­January across many parts of the UK.'

Mr Madden also predicted 'prolonged periods of extreme cold and snow from the Arctic', and said that Scotland and the North should prepare for the worst of it.

Forecasters at Netweather predict 'widespread snowfall' by November, while the Met Office said the beginning of October would see lower-than-average night temps, creating overnight frosts.

Weather Services International also said October, November and December would see temperatures around two degrees lower than average.

All the signs point towards a 'big freeze' similar to last year, when the run-up to Christmas saw heavy snowfall of up to 30 inches causing chaos on the transport networks, with airports being brought to a standstill - a problem that cost the economy around £13 billion, according to the Express.

The news follows Britain being hit by Hurricane Katia just last month - the worst storm the UK has seen for 15 years with winds of up to 80mph leaving damage of around £100 million.
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