WORCESTER and the surrounding areas are expected to escape the worst of this week’s winter weather.

The northern and eastern parts of the country can expect more snow today and on Thursday, according to forecasters, but this is unlikely to affect Worcestershire.

Worcester News weather expert Paul Damari said he expected it to be a milder than average winter despite the cold start.

“Today there will be some sunshine and some wintery showers,” he said.

“Tonight and into Wednesday there will be some rain around which could be preceded by sleet or wet snow over higher ground.

“But we will have less cold air for the rest of the week.”

Daytime temperatures today will reach about 6C (43F) but from Wednesday onwards they will rise to 8C to 9C (46F to 48F). Night temperatures will be 3C to 6C (37F to 43F) for the end of the week.

“I am not predicting any real snowfalls,” said Mr Damari.

“That will mainly be in the northern and eastern parts. Even the snow that falls over higher ground will be wet stuff.

“I still think the winter as a whole, despite the cold start, will be milder than average.”