HIGH winds are expected to hit East Lancashire towns ahead of forecasts for snow on high ground and overnight frosts.

Meteorologists predict an abrupt end to the mild autumn with windy and wintry conditions from tomorrow.

Wind and rain are expected to last into Saturday, with colder temperatures than of late.

Gale force winds are to usher in Christmas week, with a chance of flooding.

Though frost and snow are forecast for higher ground over Christmas and new year, it is expected residential areas will escape ‘deep freeze’ conditions.

Huncoat weather expert Roy Chetham said the exceptionally mild autumn temperatures indicated a less severe winter.

He added: “The climate models have all indicated a mild winter.

“Higher ground may see snow and frost but lower ground, where most people live, will probably escape it.

“There is, of course, a chance of a day or afternoon’s sleet or snow, but there’s been no indication of a deep freeze. We have seen some of the mildest temperatures for December in a while and that indicates a mild winter.

“However, the forecasted winds which are due could be very strong and are more of an immediate concern.”

The Met Office said Lancashire was likely to remain very unsettled throughout the Christmas period, with frequent spells of strong winds and rain expected.

Gale force winds are possible and rain is also likely to be heavy at times.

A spokesman said temperatures are most likely to be near or above normal for December at first, but then trending a little colder, more especially later, when there looks to be an increasing risk of some snow in the north and on hills, while night frosts may become more common.

Current indications are that unsettled weather is likely to continue into the New Year.

Spells of mild, wet and windy weather are likely to alternate with brighter, colder, showery periods.