Brits urged to prepare for shock -8C freeze which could delay the start of spring

BRITS were urged yesterday to prepare for a big freeze that could delay the start of spring.

Temperatures are set to fall to -4C (25F) by Thursday and icy winds will make it feel close to -8C (17F) in parts.

And forecasters said they could not rule out “significant” snowfall.

The cold snap is down to a rapid warming over the Arctic disrupting airflow patterns and forcing bitter easterly winds from Siberia across Europe.

The polar event — a Sudden Stratospheric Warming — is the first of its kind in five years.

Health experts warned vulnerable people to take care during the freeze.

Dr Thomas Waite, of Public Health England, said: “Over 65s, those with conditions like heart and lung diseases and young children, are all at particular risk in cold weather as their bodies struggle to cope when temperatures fall.

"So before it gets cold check on friends, family and neighbours, who may be at risk and make sure they’re heating homes.

"Remember keeping warm will help keep you well."

Met Office forecaster Grahame Madge said: "We are now likely to see the effects which could hold out into the first week of March.

www.thesun.co.uk