A long cold front is currently moving from the UK and Ireland across Central Europe to the Mediterranean, heralding a period of changeable and cool weather.

The cold snap has already reached the UK, where the week begins noticeably chillier. Eastern Europe will be next on Tuesday and Wednesday. Temperatures are likely to drop by around 10 degrees in many places.

In addition, there will be strong winds in many places and, in some areas, persistent rain. From the Balkans to Poland in particular, there will also be heavy thunderstorms.

Winter is even making a brief return to the mountains: widespread snow is expected in the Alps overnight on Monday. Villages at altitudes of around 1,200 metres and above will be dusted with snow once again.