The big freeze: Warnings of a Siberian snap

Freezing air from the Arctic and Siberia trapped over the UK will bring snow and sub-zero temperatures this week, experts warned yesterday.

Temperatures may drop to -10C in England and Wales, with the possibility of temperatures as low as -16C, the Met Office said. Coldest will be the Midlands and North-west England. But in Scotland, where temperatures have already hit -18C, the beleaguered ski industry is enjoying its best season for years.

Snow showers blew across the rest of the country yesterday, making roads treacherous. A man died in a crash on the M55 near Blackpool, and six cars collided on the M6 near Manchester.

Snake Pass, which crosses the Peak District from Manchester to Sheffield, was closed. Frozen pitches led to football matches being called off.