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Ice expected across Northern Ireland this weekend

The first winter snow of the year on the hills close to Maghera in Co Derry. Picture by Margaret McLaughlin
The first winter snow of the year on the hills close to Maghera in Co Derry. Picture by Margaret McLaughlin The first winter snow of the year on the hills close to Maghera in Co Derry. Picture by Margaret McLaughlin

ICE is expected across large parts of Northern Ireland this weekend as temperatures continue to plummet.

It comes as the Met Office warned that snow, strong winds and heavy rain could also be on the way across parts of the UK.

The maximum temperature today is expected to be 6 degrees celcius, a far cry from Monday's high of 16 degrees.

Last week the Met Office warned that the north should expect an extremely cold winter and with a very high likelihood of snow.

This weekend a 'polar air mass' is set to bring snow, hail and thunder to northern England, Scotland and Wales.

Parts of Britain woke up to snow on Friday and more is expected on higher ground.

Gusts of up to 65 mph are possible in southern parts of England.

The RAC has warned motorists to be prepared for the weather.

Spokesman Simon Peevers said: "With the weather set to become increasingly wintry over the weekend, we're urging motorists to make sure they aren't left out in the cold when it comes to dealing with adverse conditions.

"Planning ahead is key, especially if you're going on a long journey, so making sure things like your car's antifreeze/coolant levels and tyre pressures are correct is essential, as well as topping up windscreen washers.

"In addition to vehicle health, it's important that motorists ensure they and their passengers are prepared with supplies of warm clothing, blankets, and some food and water if the worst happens and the vehicle breaks down at the roadside."

The unpredictable changes in the weather patterns come as the World Meteorological Organisation said that 2016 is set to be the hottest year ever recorded globally.