UK weather: Exact date snow to fall as chilly winds and heavy rain lash Britain

SNOW and chilly gales are set to hit with the Met Office also warning heavy rain will lash Brits.

A pattern of unsettled weather is predicted as much of the UK wakes up to fog and frost this morning - with snowfall expected by the end of the week.

Today's outlook is cloudy across eastern and northeastern areas with patchy showers.

Fog and frost will clear up in most parts to make way for sunny spells later this morning.

But for those in southern England and Wales, conditions will remain "rather breezy", the Met Office has predicted.

Met Office meteorologist Clare Nasir said: "There will be showery bursts over the far south east of England and through the day, showers will develop by around mid to late morning across south England and Wales."

Downpours will move their way up across the UK into the afternoon, developing over northern England.

She added: "Quite a breeze towards the West Country and western parts of Scotland also seeing a keen breeze."

The east coast will feel the chill today with temperatures set to hover around 8C.

Meanwhile, inland temperatures are slightly warmer with an average from 12C to 13C predicted.

And, a brighter and sunny day is forecast for western Scotland, Northern Ireland and western Wales.

Into the evening and throughout the night, showers will continue to move northwards.

On Friday morning, frosty patches are expected in northern Scotland as the mercury dips to 2C in certain hilly areas.

"It could turn gusty, particularly over the higher ground," explained the meteorologist.

And, the Met Office forecast snow to arrive in just days.

From Saturday the long range forecast predicts : "Generally turning more unsettled.

"Often cloudy with some outbreaks of rain, becoming locally heavy.

"Some snow over the Scottish mountains.

"Continuing to feel rather cold in fresh, locally strong winds."