Published Friday, 11 January 2013
It's already snowing in Northumberland, and it's set to get worse - except in NI (© PA)
Although the frost has made an appearance in Northern Ireland, it seems we will not be experiencing the same wintry conditions as the rest of the UK over the next three weeks.
Temperatures are due to drop this weekend in England and Scotland, with the chilly weather continuing into February.
In Northern Ireland there is a maximum of 5C on Saturday, but the Met Office has warned of sleet and snow by Wednesday.
Weather experts say there will be widespread overnight frost and ice in the region and it is expected to stay dry and cold into next month.
This year has been mild so far - even reaching 9C in Cornwall on Thursday - which will make the blast of cold weather even more uncomfortable for those across the water.
The Highways Agency said it was "well prepared" for winter conditions, with 500 winter vehicles on standby and a reserve salt stock to deal with the severe weather.
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