HAMPSHIRE will be shivering this week when an Arctic blast sweeps into the UK, bringing snow showers, strong winds and widespread frost.

The Met Office has issued a number of severe weather warnings as the region prepares to handle the coldest spell of the New Year.

A warning of snow is in place from 10am until 9pm on Thursday and it has been reported that the army is on standby.

A Ministry of Defence spokesperson told a national newspaper: “Our armed forces are ready should they be needed in adverse weather.”

A Met Office statement says: "There is a chance of snow settling with disruption to road, rail and air services as well as interruptions to power supplies and other utilities - this more likely across East Anglia and south east England.

"Associated heavy rain and strong winds may prove additional hazards."

Temperatures could fall below minus ten degrees tomorrow night according to the forecast.

A warning of snow is in place from 10am until 9pm on Thursday.

Several centimetres of snow could settle on higher ground in parts of Scotland, while lower areas will receive a dusting.

Forecaster Craig Snell said the snowfall could lead to "dangerous conditions on the roads" and the strong winds could force bridge closures and cause lorry buffeting.

He said the winds would drop off during the afternoon but pick up again by Wednesday evening, leading to a combination of wind and snow.

The mix could bring "blizzard-like conditions across parts of Scotland" leading to "some very tricky driving conditions".

There is also a chance of thunder and lightning, which could disrupt the power supply and bring so-called "thundersnow".

Mr Snell added that it would be "a very unsettled and cold day across the northern half of the country".

A Met Office statement says: "If the area of heavy rain moves further north, this would pull cold air into the system and bring snow to parts of southern England and south Wales.

"At the same time heavy rain will likely persist in some areas along with the potential for some locally strong winds."

Temperatures could plummet to as low as -2C overnight in some local areas, coating streets and cars with a thick layer of frost.

With the cold weather expected to cause havoc with commuters and motorists, the RAC is urging drivers to plan their journeys and proceed with caution.

RAC spokesman Rod Dennis said: “Even a small amount of snowfall has the potential to cause major disruption for motorists.

“The fact that drivers in some parts of the country will be faced with strong winds, snow showers and icy stretches increases the chances of problems on the road enormously.

“Commuters and those drivers planning longer journeys this week must heed the weather warnings and be prepared for tricky driving conditions and significantly extended journey times.

“A lot of accidents happen when people are in rush – with conditions deteriorating this week, we strongly advise motorists to plan their trips carefully and consider rearranging any non-essential journeys in the parts of the country most likely to be affected by the bad weather.”

Southampton City Council said it is armed with four gritters to tackle the arctic blast and ensure motorists are given the best chance of travelling safely.

Councillor Dave Shields, cabinet member for health at Southampton City Council, is also urging residents to look after each other as temperatures threaten to drop below freezing.

Mr Shields said: “Winter can be a challenging time of year for the most vulnerable people in our communities. I urge residents to ensure they look out for their elderly and vulnerable neighbours as temperatures drop to ensure they have everything they need to keep warm and well this winter.”

Residents of Southampton that are concerned about keeping their homes warm can get in touch with the Southampton Healthy Homes Service for free advice and support.

Call 0800 804 8601 or email keepwarm@environmentcentre.com.