Snow is expected in at least eight areas of England over the next two days. The wintry weather will bring a drop in temperatures and a biting southeasterly wind, leading to strong gusts in northern England.

Snow drifts are anticipated, with the heaviest expected in the Peak District today and in Angus, Scotland, tomorrow. The Met Office has identified eight areas in England likely to experience snow during this period, including Cumbria, Derbyshire, Greater Manchester, Lancashire, North Yorkshire, South Yorkshire, Staffordshire, and West Yorkshire.

Residents are advised to take precautions due to potentially icy conditions. Safety measures include leaving earlier than usual to avoid rushing, reducing the risk of accidents and falls.

According to the Met Office, Northern Ireland is under a rain warning on Friday, with a chance of brief snowfall in high-altitude areas of Wales, northern England, and Scotland as a front moves northeast, likely turning to rain at lower levels.

Reports suggest heavy snowfall is likely in Derbyshire and Staffordshire today, with the weather system moving north towards Yorkshire by midday. Other parts of England may escape snow but can expect wet conditions, following recent heavy rainfall that caused flooding in the Southwest.

Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster Stephen Kocher attributed the current weather patterns to a temperature contrast in North America strengthening the jet stream affecting UK weather. He indicated that further unsettled weather is expected in the coming days.

Looking ahead, more snow is predicted next week, particularly in West Yorkshire, North Yorkshire, and County Durham on Monday. This forecast raises concerns about flooding, following recent incidents in Somerset, Dorset, and Devon. A severe flood warning remains in place for Lower Stour at Iford Bridge Home Park.