A cold weather alert has been issued as temperatures look set to plummet below freezing.

The Met Office says there is a 90% probability of severe cold weather and icy conditions over the next few days - and there could even be snow.

The level 3 amber alert, which is triggered when there is widespread ice or snow or temperatures drop below 2c for more than two days, is in place until 9am on Monday.

When in place, social and healthcare services are urged to ensure high-risk groups such as the elderly are prepared for the cold snap.

Forecasters say prolonged colder conditions are expected across all regions through the rest of this week and over the weekend.

There will be low daytime temperatures and sharp frosts overnight, and scattered, mainly light snow showers in the east,

There will also be strong winds, particularly in coastal areas.