The Met Office has issued a weather warning covering most of the country, with snowfalls of as much as 10cm-15cm (4in-6in) forecast for Scotland by tonight.

Strong easterly winds sent temperatures tumbling, but the cold and snowy spell is likely to be brief, with temperatures in the South reaching 8C (46F) tomorrow.

The Highways Agency said: “Drivers are advised to check the forecast and road conditions, to leave extra time for their journeys, and to delay their journey if the weather becomes severe.” They should pack extra clothing in case of breakdowns. Gritters were standing by to counter the expected widespread frosts.

Marco Petagna, of MeteoGroup, said that today southeast England and South Wales would have 1cm-2cm of snow, with up to 5cm on high ground. “The snow will reach Scotland later, and there could be 10cm-15cm on high ground. Temperatures are going to be around 1C to 4C but it will seem colder as there will be a biting east wind,” he said. The snow should not stay long, and southwest England may have no more than rain.