London could be set for an icy blast as forecasters predict this morning's chilly start will signal the onset of a cold snap.
Temperatures are predicted to plummet next week as autumn gives way to winter, with freezing conditions in the north expected to edge south during the course of the week.
A medium-term Met Office forecast said: "Through the week, there is a trend for most parts to become colder and more unsettled, with showers or more persistent spells of rain.
"(These) may be locally heavy and also turn wintry over the hills in the north.
"It is likely to be windy at times, with a risk of gales across northern areas. Overnight frosts are also likely to become more widespread than recently."
Night temperatures are expected to fall to just above freezing in the capital, giving rise to the possibility of frosty starts to in the mornings.
Forecasters said the temperatures next week would be several degrees below average for the time of year.
