Freezing rain to spark chaos after flights AXED due to fog – with -11C chill setting in

FREEZING rain and “icy stretches” are set to spark chaos in parts of the UK after temperatures hit a bone-chilling -11C.

The frosty conditions are affecting eastern parts of the country today, as the chilly weather continues to bite.

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Friday morning will be cloudy in the west with bands of rain brushing into Northern Ireland and Scotland[/caption]

The Grampian mountains in Northwest Highlands will be the most affected following a bout of “freezing rain”.

Pockets of fog are expected to form in the East after Braemar in the Scottish Highalnds reached -11C yesterday.

Commuters should expect difficult driving conditions along with train and bus delays.

The Met Office said: “Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, leaving extra journey time, or amending plans if necessary.

“Make sure you know how to switch on your fog lights, and check they are working before setting off on your journey.”

The cold snap will also continue across southeast England today despite the sunnier weather and clearer skies.

The Met Office warned icy, wintry weather can cause delays and make driving conditions “dangerous”.

The forecaster said: “It is safer not to drive in icy conditions, but if you absolutely must drive, keep yourself and others safe by looking well ahead for potential hazards and keep your speed down.

“Using a higher gear may be more appropriate to help grip on packed ice.”

This follows yesterday’s string of flight cancellations due to fog, when temperatures hit -9C and roads were covered in “hazardous” ice.

The cancelled flights included BA services from Belfast City airport to Heathrow and Southampton as well as a string of Aer Lingus departures.

Belfast City Airport said: “Due to adverse weather conditions across Northern Ireland, there may be some disruption to flights due to arrive and depart.

“Please visit our website or contact the airline directly for the latest flight information.”