Snow and ice expected to cause chaos for rush hour commuters

Wintry showers are expected to sweep across the country on Wednesday and into Thursday

A car makes its way through sleet and snow in Buxton, Derbyshire (PA)

Wintry showers are expected to sweep across the country on Wednesday and into Thursday, triggering warnings of heavy rain and snow for many parts.

Commuters in parts of England, Scotland and Northern Ireland have been warned that the morning rush hour on Wednesday could be disrupted by heavy rain, sleet and snow.

The Met Office has issued a yellow warning of heavy rain until 11am covering south east Scotland and Cumbria and a yellow warning of snow for Northern Ireland and Cumbria

Forecaster Mark Wilson said: "Motorists really need to be aware of the weather conditions as there is heavy rain and snow in places so give extra time and stay up-to-date with the forecast and warnings."

A slow-moving band of wet weather that could turn into snow, potentially at lower levels, is expected to head towards the south east through Wednesday.

A yellow warning of snow will be in place in the Midlands, central England and across to just north of London from 8pm on Wednesday to 10am on Thursday.

Conditions are expected to improve throughout Thursday with milder yet potentially unsettled weather for most.

Press Association