Britain to be hit by big freeze within weeks
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Just a few days ago we were soaking up the sunshine, but now forecasters warn that we should expect freezing temperatures and snow by the beginning of November.
Parts of Scotland already saw snow this week and yesterday temperatures plunged to just 8C - which is 21.5C below last weekend's record highs.
Yesterday temperatures in London were 16.5C lower than last week and forecasters are already predicting temperatures as low as -20C.
A survey from council leaders shows that local authorities are already stockpiling thousands of tonnes of extra road salt in preparation for another freezing winter.
James Madden, a long-range forecaster for Exacta Weather, said: "I expect the most frequent and heavy snowfalls to occur across many parts of the UK during November, December and January at present.
"I initially expect frequent and significant snowfalls across many northern regions and Scotland throughout this winter.
"Any earlier snowfall is likely to be more confined to northern and western parts of the UK, although large scale low pressure systems also offer the potential for significant snowfalls to many parts of the UK.
"I also expect November, December, January and February to feature largely below-average temperatures across many parts of the UK, it is likely that temperature and snowfall records will be broken within this defined time frame."
Last year many authorities were criticised as motorists battled dangerous roads caused by freezing temperatures.
Cllr Peter Box, Chairman of the Local Government Association's Economy and Transport Board, said: "Councils have a huge and important role to play in keeping the country running and know there is no room for complacency.
"Treating the roads means children can still get to school safely, their parents can get to work, care workers can reach those in need, ambulances and police can tend to emergencies, and the wheels of business don't grind to a halt.
"Local authorities have been hard at work making preparations for this winter ever since the end of the last one and keeping the roads open will be our number one priority.
If you're in the mood for some last-minute sunshine, click on the image below to find out where to go in October...
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