While March is traditionally associated with the start of spring in the UK, forecasters are predicting an Arctic blast this year.
The month will bring sub-zero temperatures, snowstorms and icy conditions due to a sudden stratospheric warning.
The Met Office’s long-range forecast indicates that sudden stratospheric warming began last week and will cause the cold snap.
The first snow is due to fall across northern England and Scotland from 6 March, with temperatures dropping below average towards the end of the month.
March 9-23 will see spells of rain or snow, with north-western areas the most likely to see the driest conditions.
»Forecasters predict Arctic blast this year«