The Met Office is reporting that a sudden stratospheric warming is on the way, causing cold wintry weather for much of the country. There is some uncertainty on the effects this stratospheric warming could cause for the UK. However, unlike last year’s fast moving Beast from the East, the weather event is travelling slowly through the atmosphere. Related articles UK weather forecast: Britain to be lashed by FEROCIOUS winds BBC weather: EXTREME SNOW sparks PANIC in Europe Will it snow near you? According to Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist, Martin Young: “The latest forecast suggests the highest risk of any severe wintry weather is from late January and into February. “Whether cold spells will be brought about by Arctic air arriving from the north or easterly flows arriving from the continent remains uncertain. “However, before this happens we expect a rather changeable and relatively mild spell over the weekend and early next week, with some rain for most of us.” The risk of snow comes “from the middle of next week” and extends into the “last week of January and into early February”. Read More: UK snow WARNING: Shock weather maps show Britain blanketed in snow Met Office forecast: A sudden stratospheric warming could trigger chilly conditions in the UK (Image: GETTY/ WX CHARTS) This cold weather could become “established across all of the UK.” Mr Young continued: “This would bring an enhanced risk of snow and widespread frost almost anywhere across the UK, but particularly across northern parts. “However, the cold weather may not affect the whole of the UK and it is still possible that some milder and wetter interludes will intersperse this generally cold period, especially in the south.” This forecast this weekend sees temperatures remaining quite mild, with highs ranging from 10C to 11C across the country. Related articles UK weather forecast: Britain set for 6-week DEEP FREEZE as widespre... Snow BURIES Europe as death toll rises but is BIG FREEZE heading to UK Met Office forecast: After Thursday temperatures will begin to drop (Image: MET OFFICE) It will be especially windy across northern areas, turning to gales on Sunday. Heading into next week temperatures will begin to drop, with highs of 7C in Southampton and just 4C in Edinburgh. According to the Met Office, Monday looks less windy, colder and brighter. It will be cloudy, breezy and milder again on Tuesday with outbreaks of rain. Met Office forecast: Unlike last year's Beast from the East, this weather system is moving slowly (Image: GETTY) Wednesday will see rain clearing to brighter, showery and windier conditions but turning colder across the country. Cold and unsettled conditions will begin after Thursday, with longer spells of rain. This could turn to snow “almost anywhere” say the Met Office but areas in the North and central England will be most at risk. Frost could also impact much of the country, becoming “widespread and severe.”All rights reserved for this news site express.co.uk and under his responsibility