UK weather: Britain braces for first big freeze of winter as temperatures set to plunge to -1C in just days

Below-zero temperatures are likely in Scotland, while north-western England could see the mercury drop to single figures.

In the south coast, there could be highs of 11C, while the rest of the UK will experience the arctic blasts.

Reports claim that up to 7cm of snow could fall in Scotland before the end of October.

However, the Met Office does not predict snowfall in the next two weeks.

The lowest temperatures will be seen on Monday, October 27, in Wales, where lows of -1C could be felt.

The national weather forecaster said that "details of any more unsettled weather are still very uncertain" from October 16 to 25.

The forecast reads: "High pressure is expected to dominate the UK weather at the start of this period.

"Whilst a little rain and drizzle is likely in parts of the southeast and north, mainly over the higher ground, much of the UK will be predominantly dry.

"Cloud amounts will be variable but often large, although there will be some spells of sunshine. There are likely to be some fog patches overnight, slowly clearing through the morning.

"Temperatures are likely to be close to normal for the time of year overall.

"During the second half of this period, there are signs that the general pattern will shift with low pressure systems probably moving in from the west in some fashion.

"However, details of any more unsettled weather are still very uncertain."

The long-range forecast from October 26 to November 9 predicts that "changeable conditions across the UK with low pressure systems tending to dominate."

It adds: "Showers or longer spells of rain are likely at times, perhaps heavy in places, with some strong winds also possible at times. However, there will also likely be some temporary drier interludes at times. Temperatures will probably be close to normal overall."

For now, Monday will see cloudy conditions with sunshine limited to northern England and much of Scotland.

Cloud will be thick enough for drizzle in some places.

As the week progresses, clouds are expected to remain, but conditions will be largely dry.

The Met Office predicts a few outbreaks of drizzle at times.

Overnight fog patches could reduce visibility.

Temperatures will remain near average.