New weather maps flash orange as UK set for freezing rain after Met Office issues warning

The UK is bracing for freezing rain. (Image: Wikimedia Commons/WXCHARTS)

The UK is bracing for another period of wintry conditions starting today as some areas of the country are hit with freezing rain.

The rare weather event occurs when liquid precipitation hits a cold surface and freezes almost instantly, which can encase it in a layer of ice.

New maps from WXCHARTS, which uses MetDesk data, have revealed Scotland is in for two days of the phenomenon, starting imminently.

Areas of the country are due to experience freezing rain starting from 9am on Tuesday, particularly in the Highlands and near the west coast - where levels will be around 2mm/hr.

The Met Office has also separately issued a yellow alert for snow and ice, in place for areas of Scotland. The agency warns of snow and freezing rain creating difficult driving conditions, particularly in higher ground.

Freezing rain will affect parts of Scotland. (Image: WXCHARTS)

The warning reads: "Some roads and railways likely to be affected with longer journey times by road, bus and train services, especially on routes over higher ground.

"Probably some icy patches on some untreated roads, pavements and cycle paths. Injuries from slips and falls on icy surfaces are possible."

The affected areas are: Central, Tayside and Fife, Grampain, South West Scotland, Lothian Borders, and Strathclyde.

Snow is also due to fall in Scotland and England. (Image: WXCHARTS)

The Met Office forecast for Tuesday is: "Rain and hill snow will clear from Northern Ireland and Scotland into the afternoon.

"Dry and bright elsewhere, spreading north, with some hazy sunshine at times. A breezy day for many and still feeling cold in the brisk southeasterly breeze."

Its Wednesday forecast reads: "A chilly bright start for many, but turning cloudier from the west as patchy rain and drizzle spreads east through the day. Often breezy, but feeling a little milder."