Hopes for a white Christmas were dashed last month but the coldest of the winter weather is still yet to come.

Historically, January and February are the coldest winter months and often bring freezing temperatures, icy conditions and snow.

As Norfolk heads into the new year, many will be wondering if the county will see snow at all. 

READ MORE: Warning issued for Norfolk as rivers rapidly rising after heavy rainfall

A Met Office spokeswoman said: "The long-range forecast shows high pressure is likely to become dominant across the UK and we might see drier and calmer conditions developing by the weekend and into next week.

"After next week, temperatures are likely to be cooler with some wintry hazards at times.

Eastern Daily Press: Early forecasts on AccuWeather show several days of snowfall later in the monthEarly forecasts on AccuWeather show several days of snowfall later in the month (Image: Accuweather)

"This will continue in a downward trend, becoming below average in many areas from mid-month, although the chance of widespread severe cold is still deemed low at this point."

But long-range forecasts on AccuWeather show the possibility of snow hitting the region as early as January 17 which may continue for several days.

READ MORE: Amber weather warning for Norfolk as Storm Henk brings 60mph winds

While temperatures remain high mostly this week and the next, the mercury is trending downward as January goes on, heading toward two and three degrees above zero. 

In the UK, the heaviest snowfall usually occurs when the ambient air temperature dips to between zero and two degrees.

This happens because the snowflakes begin to melt as they fall but cool quickly again, sticking together to become heavy flakes, often called "wet" snow. 

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