Parts of the UK are bracing for temperatures well below freezing, according to the latest advanced weather models. Meteorological winter has officially arrived, and with it, some brisk temperatures are destined to arrive in Britain, with areas in Scotland reaching as low as -6C.

According to the latest snapshot from WXCharts, an Arctic air mass will surge south over the Highlands on Wednesday, December 17, bringing with it dangerously cold conditions and a chance of snow. Historically, December nights in Scotland typically hover around freezing, with average lows of around 0C or slightly above, making a deep –6C freeze far below what many are used to.

If these long-range maps are to be believed, a huge area over Scotland could wake up to some bitterly cold, heavy snowfall and some icy roads, all of which could cause disruption.

But this Arctic mass won’t just be focused on the Scottish Highlands, sub-zero temperatures will see the mercury plummet across parts of northern England.

The charts show areas in Cumbria, Lancashire and Northumberland will be hit by the Arctic blast by midnight, with the freeze reaching as far south as Wales.

During this time, snow will remain over the Highlands, with parts of Scotland predicted to be blanketed with around 50cm of snow.

That said, the Met Office has urged caution. In their long-range forecast, they predict snow could hit higher ground in the north of the UK.

Looking at the weather from Wednesday, December 17 until the new year, they predict: “This period is likely to be changeable, with further spells of rain or showers and some strong winds at times, especially in the west. 

“Hill snow is also a possibility, mainly in the north. However, there is a greater chance of spells of high pressure during this period, bringing more in the way of dry weather compared to the unsettled patterns we are likely to see through the first couple of weeks of December. 

“This will increase the chances of overnight fog and frost. Overall, near or slightly above average temperatures are most likely, though some colder spells are also possible, especially should any prolonged settled spells develop.”