Why is it so cold? Verdict on how long the icy blast will last

Jack Frost has wasted no time in claiming the changing season, with snow falling in the UK for the first time in Scotland for months.

Colder temperatures have moved into the UK much earlier than anticipated – but why?

This September had the earliest frost seen in 20 years, after years of heatwaves topping 34C in previous Septembers.

While it’s not on the same level as the ‘Beast from the East’ which saw London streets looking like a mini Ice Age in 2018, it is still going to be a ‘shock to the system’ for many.

The early winter weather can be attributed to low pressure moving in from the northeast meeting with high pressure in the Atlantic – creating colder Arctic winds.

But it’s not all bad news, as temperatures will each a balmy 20C by this Sunday, giving Britons a last glimpse at summer before it’s gone for good.

The Met Office said that there will be ‘showers, some sunshine and a cold wind’ today and tomorrow.

Meteorologist Clare Nasir said of today: ‘Winds won’t be as blustery across in-land areas, showers particularly along the coastline, they may develop in land, but there will be some drier interludes and a mix of cloud and sunshine yet again, temperatures 14C or 15C in the south.’

Friday will generally be a dry day after possible patchy frost again on Thursday night.

She added: ‘A ridge of high pressure is moving in, so a cold start, with a localised frost, but with that we’ll see some sunshine.

‘All change though as we head into the weekend from the north west.’

Temperatures are expected to return nearer to average for this time of year at the weekend, with highs of up to 21C in the south.

In the meantime, don’t forget your coat and jumper.

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