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No new Big Freeze, says Met Office

After the embarrassment of the "barbecue summer" that never was, the Met Office has once again predicted unseasonable weather and claimed there will no repeat of last year's "big freeze" this Christmas.

Forecasters have put their necks on the line and said they expect average temperatures in the weeks leading up to the festive period with this month likely to be the warmest November on record.

The recent mild weather, with warm air sweeping the UK from Europe, has meant some parts of the UK have reached 18C (64.4F). The warmest November was in 1994 when temperatures were an average of 8.8C (48F).

A year ago, severe winter weather and sub-zero temperatures struck across the country bringing transport networks, schools and businesses to a standstill.

Burst pipes, vehicle accidents and property damage meant Britain's insurers were hit with a £1.43 billion for weather-related claims while companies saw productivity plummet.

Yesterday, as much as 10cm (4ins) of snow had already fallen in parts of Scotland with weather warnings issued for northern Scotland until Sunday.

Independent forecasters anticipated a “Siberian December” with temperatures dropping as low as -15C (5F).

But the Met Office said it expected only occasional cold snaps for the rest of the year and said a repeat of last year's extreme weather was not expected.

Forecaster Dan Williams said: "There’s no signal for a repeat of last year’s December cold spell.

“Last December saw a very prolonged period with wave after wave of cold spells and snow, ice and sub-zero temperatures.

“But rather than that, it looks like we’re in for a mixed, unsettled December this year, with some cold spells but also milder spells.”

Strong winds were forecast for the weekend that could bring another 10cm (4ins) snow in Scotland.

"Fresh snow is expected across the whole of Scotland on ground above 400m on Saturday night or Sunday morning, with the chance it could spread to lower ground – and we are assessing if it will affect northern England," Mr Williams added.

“There is also the risk of further snow on higher ground in Scotland next week, and the possibility of snow later next week on higher ground in northern England.”

Last month it was reported that the Army would be put on standby in case of another spate of freezing weather.

Troops would be on call to support highways authorities and help keep roads clear for ambulances and emergency vehicles.

The move came after the Government was almost forced to close motorways in previous years because of a grit shortage. This year, there is a stockpile of two million tonnes of salt.

Health Secretary Andrew Lansley said at the time: “Every year, there is a 19 per cent increase in deaths in the winter in England. By working together, this coordinated plan will help protect those most in need. We are determined to do all we can to achieve this.”