Snow and heavy rain warnings in place for large parts of UK

Weather experts have warned that there could be disruption with snow and heavy rain expected across many parts of the UK this week.

A yellow weather warning for Northern Ireland could see rain, hill snow and strong winds across the country on Wednesday.

While spells of heavy rain could lead to some flooding and difficult travel conditions across southern England.

Another yellow warning for snow is also due to begin later today, across parts of Wales and central England.

The latest weather warnings have been issues by the Met Office - the UK's national weather service.

It comes after a drop in temperatures across the country in recent days, with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issuing a cold weather alert covering most of England until Friday evening.

On Wednesday, Northern Ireland will see a mix of wet and wintry weather, with rain as well as snow over higher ground likely.

Experts say that flooding and travel disruption is possible, with wind gusts of 45-55mph expected.

A separate yellow weather warning for rain is in place across southern counties of England, where showers will turn heavier as the day goes on.

Up to 50mm of rain could fall, which could worsen the flooding issues that have affected many parts of southern England over the past few weeks.

The wet and wintry weather is expected to head north to the Midlands and parts of Wales this evening - with the possibility of up to 15cm of snow over the highest ground.

This could mean difficult travelling conditions for some, as well as possible power cuts.

However, there is better news forecast for later this week.

Experts say that much milder weather is expected across the UK by the weekend.