Parts of Swindon could be blanketed with a white layer over the next few days as snow is forecast.

A cold weather warning has been issued by the Met Office with temperatures expected to plummet over the next few days.

Winds which are currently blowing from the east are expected to shift to the north bringing an Arctic chill to the country and below-average temperatures for the time of year.

Frost and ice are also expected along with sleet showers.

People are being urged to use their heating, despite rising energy prices, and to look out for people who are especially vulnerable.

The freezing weather is expected to start on Wednesday and according to the Met Office, isolated showers are likely with some of these potentially turning wintry by Thursday.

Going into next week, sleet showers are forecast, but these could also turn into snow according to The Weather Channel.

It says there is a chance of snow showers on Sunday morning as well as on Tuesday evening and with further chances of the white stuff falling through to Friday.

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Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist, Rebekah Sherwin, said: “Temperatures will start to dip this week, with daytime temperatures struggling to get above freezing in many places from mid-week onwards. However, the cold air from the Arctic will also bring brighter conditions, with some dry, sunny spells in many areas, particularly away from the coast.

A Level 3 Cold Weather Alert has been issued by the UK Health Security Agency covering all of England from Wednesday evening through to Monday 12th December.

Dr Agostinho Sousa, Consultant in Public Health Medicine at UKHSA, said: “Cold weather can have serious consequences for health, and older people and those with heart or lung conditions can be particularly at risk.

“If you have a pre-existing medical condition, you should heat your home to a temperature that is comfortable for you.

"In rooms you mostly use such as the living room or bedroom, try to heat them to at least 18°C if you can. Wearing several layers of clothing will keep you warmer than one thicker layer.”

The RAC is also advising motorists to make sure their tyres are in good condition ahead of the cold weather.