Last night was thought to be one of the coldest nights of the year, with freezing temperatures recorded across the UK.
Bristol saw a low of -6C, recorded at 7am this morning according to the Met Office, which is likely to be the coldest night Bristol has seen so far this year.
Chilly temperatures are expected to continue over the weekend, with a high of just 7C forecast.
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Explaining the freezing temperatures, Met Office forecaster Clare Nasir said yesterday: “[There will be] Arctic air streaming down from the north delivering snow showers particularly in the far north east of the country before high pressure moves in from the west affecting mainly England and Wales and a stronger wind will develop in Scotland.”
Given these expected weather conditions, the UK Health Security Agency has urged people to check neighbours are safe, especially in parts of England which will experience their coldest temperatures of the winter so far.
Agostinho Sousa, a consultant at the agency, said: "Cold weather can have a serious impact on health, particularly for older people and those with heart and lung problems, as it increases the risks of heart attacks, strokes and chest infections.
"Remind vulnerable relatives and neighbours to heat their home to at least 18C - particularly if they have reduced mobility, are 65 or older, or have a health condition. Should they need to go outside, it's important for them to wear shoes with a good grip."
The forecast for the weekend and next week is very much cloudy, but also bitterly cold. There is not much wind forecast, but temperatures are expected to stay near freezing.
Check the weather forecast near you, powered by In Your Area:
Tomorrow (Saturday, January 22), the temperature will peak at 7C between 2pm and 4pm, before dropping to around 3C overnight. Sunday will be colder with a high of just 4C, and Monday will be slightly warmed with a peak of 5C.
South West England Met Office weather forecast
Today:
After a cold and frosty start, today will be another dry day with mostly blue skies and plenty of winter sunshine in most places. Feeling less cold compared to yesterday with winds remaining light. Maximum temperature 8 °C.
Tonight:
More in the way of cloud developing overnight, but clear periods are likely at times. Temperatures dipping below freezing under the clear spells, especially in the south and east. Minimum temperature -2 °C.
Saturday:
Another dry albeit often rather cloudy day is in store. Some bright or sunny spells are likely in places and with light winds it won't feel too cold. Maximum temperature 8 °C.
Outlook for Sunday to Tuesday:
Remaining dry and settled. Often fairly cloudy, but some sunshine is likely at times, especially in the east of the region. Patchy overnight frost and fog where skies stay clear.
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