WINTER has arrived in Comet country with widespread snowfalls today (Tuesday) and temperatures dropping at times nine degrees below the seasonal average.

On Saturday night local met observer Richard Barker recorded his lowest ever temperature of -7.1�c overnight in Hertfordshire since his records began in 1972.

He said: “Although the weather is unusual for this time of year, two years ago we had a snap snowfall in October.

“The last really cold spell in November was 1993.”

All schools have remained open with the exception of Preston Primary School, near Hitchin.

No serious accidents have been reported but traffic on the A1(M), A602 and A505 in Hitchin was heavier than normal in the morning rush hour.

Police have advised drivers to take extra care on the roads in the icy conditions and the AA are advising drivers to leave sufficient time for journeys and ensure that all windows are clear of snow and ice.

According to local weather reports it will remain cold for the rest of the week with daytime temperatures averaging 0 to -1�c.

Temperatures should remain slightly milder than last week but a north easterly wind is expected which may affect the wind chill factor.

Overall the area should not see the heavy snow falls that have affected much of the country but there may be some more local snow showers on Thursday or Friday.

Temperatures will remain cold over the weekend with night frosts.

*To view our snow gallery click on the link at the top right of the page. If you have photos of snowy scenes in Comet country send them in to editorial@thecomet.net