Brits are bracing for a freezing cold weekend as the mercury is set to plummet to below freezing across the country.
Bitterly cold weather is expected to hit Britain with temperatures on Friday night expected to plunge as low as -5C in parts.
London could see lows of -3C overnight while rain has been forecast in the west on Saturday where temperatures will peak at a chilly 7C during the day.
A cold weather alert has been issued across the weekend for parts of the UK with widespread frost and patches of fog predicted across vast swathes of the UK.
Snow and ice are dangerous to anyone who plans on using the roads this weekend, so with that in mind we take a look at how you can ensure you drive safely in the snow and ice.
How to drive safely in the snow
Driving in the snow can be hazardous and IAM RoadSmart have urged motorists to avoid travelling in extreme weather.
If, however, you cannot avoid driving, they have also revealed how to stay safe when doing so in the snow.
Before drivers set off, they should ensure that snow is cleared from all windows, mirrors, roof and bonnet of their vehicle so it doesn’t obscure their view
Start the car gently and if using a manual, start on a higher gear to prevent your wheels from spinning on the ice.
When driving, make sure you drive at an appropriate speed for the conditions; it can take 10 times longer to stop a car on snow or ice.
There should be a larger-than-normal distance between you and the driver ahead, to give you time to slow down safely.
IAM RoadSmart's head of driving advice Richard Gladman said: "Many of the problems associated with travel during snow could be avoided if people planned in advance.
"People routinely travel with only the minimum of safety equipment, without realising their journey could be a lot longer than expected.
"At the very least you should have a shovel, torch, blanket, jump leads and tow rope.”
Gladman also advised that drivers make sure their phone is fully charged and that they have a roadside recovery number saved into it.
He added: "A bottle of water and a snack may also prove useful and don't set out without knowing the locations of petrol stations on your way."
Stay safe drivers.
