Amber and yellow weather warnings have been issued for snow and ice as the cold weather continues to hit Cumbria.

There are a number of National Severe Weather Warnings in place this weekend as the country continues to be in the grip of cold air from the north, bringing freezing temperatures, widespread frosts, patchy freezing fog and snow at times.

Warnings may well be updated over the coming days so keep up to date with the forecast in your area.

As snow showers continue to move in from the Irish Sea today an Amber warning for snow has been issued covering Cumbria.

Met Office Chief Meteorologist, Jason Kelly, said: “Snow could be heavy at times across Cumbria with the odd rumble of thunder. 10-15 cm of snow is possible before showers begin to ease overnight.

“A low pressure system will bring less cold, but more unsettled weather for southern parts of the UK from tonight onwards, although northern areas will continue cold with wintry showers and sharp overnight frosts. 

“Many areas of England and Wales areas can then expect spells of rain for the start of next week, which could be heavy at times with a risk of flooding. Some higher hills across parts of north Wales and northern England could see further snow”

The UKHSA has issued yellow and amber cold-health alerts for the health sector covering all regions of England through until the December 5.

Snowfall in late autumn or early winter doesn’t generally linger because ground temperatures broadly remain relatively high, especially compared with values in late winter, after the ground loses more of its warmth.