Temperatures are plummeting this week to below average as people are urged to stay warm and check on their neighbours.
Parts of Merseyside are set to be hit with ice and frost this week, as temperatures drop below zero. Temperatures across the country could drop to as low as -6C as the Met Office issues a weather warning.
The warning extends to areas of the Wirral and is in force from 12am - 6pm on Thursday, December 8. They warned that frequent wintry showers will spread through the early hours of Thursday as Arctic air moves in.
READ MORE: Arctic air blasts Liverpool as Met Office issues weather warning
The UK Health and Security Agency has issued a rare cold weather alert recommending that people warm their homes to at least 18C. Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist, Rebekah Sherwin, said: "We can expect to see further snow and wintry showers as the week progresses, particularly in coastal areas or over higher ground.
"There will be widespread frosts with temperatures falling to as low as -10°C overnight in isolated spots by the end of the week. More severe weather warnings could be needed as we head through the week."
Liverpool has already woken to ice and frost this morning and people are urged to wrap up warm. Council's across the region are encouraging people to check on elderly or vulnerable family members and neighbours.
How long will the cold weather last?
Although there are some uncertainties around how long this cold spell will last it is expected to stay cold into next week with temperatures "remaining well below average for the time of year".
According to the Met Office's long range weather forecast, looking ahead to next week, cold weather is expected to continue and snow could be likely. Temperatures will remain cold to very cold, but with a chance of returning "closer to normal" later in the week.
Looking further, it states: "The second half of December remains uncertain, but there are hints of a return to nearer normal temperatures. This would be associated with spells of more unsettled weather, especially for the south, and a reducing risk of wintry hazards overall, although periods of severe weather are still possible. Northern areas are likely to hold onto the colder conditions for longest."
How to keep warm
Top tips on keeping warm include wearing lots of thin layers, plenty of warm food and drinks, heating your room to at least 18C and staying as active as possible.
However, families are urged to remember key safety advice, including keeping heaters and fires away from combustible materials and making sure electric blankets are safe to use.
RAC spokesman Rod Dennis urges motorists to also be aware, adding: "With temperatures plummeting this week, many drivers might be taken aback by the cold after an exceptionally mild autumn. Our advice is to be winter ready – check tyres are properly inflated and with good tread, while topping up oil, coolant and screen wash levels if needed.
"Drivers with older batteries in their cars might also wish to give their vehicle a 20-minute drive before colder conditions arrive to ensure the battery can cope with sub-zero temperatures. It’s also worth having a fully-charged mobile phone and carrying a blanket in case of a breakdown to keep warm."
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