Chief meteorologist Matthew Lehnert says some part of Britain would be affected greatly by the impact of the snow in the coming days

The Met Office anticipates that the Arctic blast will cause further snow and ice throughout the UK.

The forecasting body’s chief meteorologist, Matthew Lehnert, cautioned that the weather could cut off rural communities in the north and impact travel over the next few days across southern England and south Wales.

Several national severe warnings for snow and ice were issued, with the Met Office stating that further warnings or updates to the current warnings are “very likely”. In south Wales, Powys Police warned about icy roads.

Lehnert stated that “Snow, ice, and low temperatures are the main themes of this week’s forecast, with the UK under an Arctic maritime air mass.

Snow could lead to some travel disruption, with a chance some rural communities in the north could be cut off.”

He added: “The focus for the snow moves to southern England and South Wales tomorrow, and some may wake up to a few centimetres of snow, with the south coast and far south-west likely to see a mix of rain and sleet.

Further snow and hail showers are also expected along northern coasts, especially in northern Scotland.”

Dale Hipkiss, national network manager at National Highways, urged people to pack extra provisions in their vehicles in case they become stranded.

The Met Office also cautioned that ice will be an additional hazard throughout the week as regions experience sub-zero temperatures.

Dr Agostinho Sousa, the UK Health and Security Agency’s head of extreme events and health protection, advised people to check on vulnerable relatives and told pensioners and anyone with an underlying health condition to heat their home to at least 18C.

Moffat Mountain Rescue in Scotland cautioned that conditions can change “very rapidly” in mountain areas as the UK battles with snow, ice, and gusty winds.

Met Office deputy chief meteorologist Helen Caughey outlined weather changes over the second half of the week. She stated: “Through Thursday and Friday, the snow risk spreads to central and northern areas of the UK.”

Caughey added: “Parts of Northern Ireland, Wales, and northern England are expected to see the worst of the conditions develop from early on Thursday, with parts of Scotland and northern England then seeing snow arrive through Thursday afternoon.

Snow across the northern half of the UK will persist through much of Friday, while further south, any snow will turn back to rain through Thursday afternoon and evening.

Strong winds are also expected to develop through Thursday and Friday, which may create drifting snow and blizzard conditions in places.”