A mass of cold air from the polar north is expected to hit the region on Saturday afternoon sending temperatures crashing down to below zero, according to the Met Office.
However, this mini winter, with low temperartures, cold winds and the possibility of snow on high ground, should be over by Wednesday. Maximum temperatures are likely to be around 17 or 18 degrees.
Sunday, Monday and Tuesday are expected to be very cold but temperatures should start rising again by Wednesday afternoon.
