Met Office warn of up to 4cm of snow overnight

Forecasters have issued a yellow ‘be aware’ warning with up to 4cm of snowfall possible as rain turns wintry overnight.

The Met Office said there is risk of a “prolonged period” of snowfall late in the night and during Wednesday morning.

Its chief forecaster said: “A cold front will move east and south across the United Kingdom through Tuesday night and Wednesday morning. This will introduce significantly colder air with frequent showers, these turning readily to sleet and snow even at low levels. 

“One to four cm is expected in some areas by dawn Wednesday with up to 10 cm in places. These higher accumulations are more likely over higher ground above 200m but may also occur to low levels where showers are heavy and prolonged. 

“Clear spells between showers will also lead to icy stretches forming on untreated surfaces.

“Please be aware of some difficult driving conditions and the potential for travel disruption into the Wednesday morning rush hour.”

He said there remains some uncertainty as to where the greatest snowfall will be and the warning will be updated as necessary.

A Rotherham Borough Council spokeswoman said gritters will be "on standby" overnight and tomorrow morning.