JUST as everyone thought spring was on its way, Powys residents are having to bring out their winter coats and jumpers again as Britain braces itself for Storm Emma.

A yellow warning, meaning a mild risk of snow and ice, has been in place across Powys all day as the ’Beast from the East’ continues to sweep across the UK causing widespread snow showers.

A freak "polar vortex" this afternoon caused snow to settle in Brecon, Crickhowell and parts of Radnorshire.

Despite the sun shining for much of the afternoon, forecasters say winter is still very much here to stay with ’Storm Emma’ following the ’Beast’, bringing blizzards, sub-zero temperatures and strong winds.

Powys County Council said that people should expect interrupted waste collections and confirmed they have 31 gritters ready to clear the roads.

The RSPCA have asked pet owners to remember their pets with the dropping temperatures and not to leave them outside.

It has said that outdoor pets such as rabbits and guinea pics should either be brought inside or kept in a well insulated and weather-proof home given plenty of extra bedding, dust-free hay.

The RSPCA also said that cats should have constant access to the house or a warm area and to ensure that the cat’s sleeping area is warm and dry.

They said: "We recommend that guinea pigs are housed indues when temperers are below 15 degrees celsius. If you do bring your rabbits or guinea pigs indoors, they still need plenty of time and room to exercise in a safe and secure environment.

"If you have to leave them outside, you must provide them with lots of extra bedding, such as dust-free hay, and make sure their home is protected from adverse weather. For example, covers can be purchased to help insulate hutches in the winter months, but care must be taken to ensure there is adequate ventilation.

"For rabbits and guinea pigs housed in a hutch, a sloped roof is preferable to allow water to drain away. Hutches should be raised off the ground by at least four inches and placed in a sheltered position, facing away from wind and rain.

"If your rabbit or guinea pig gets wet, rub them dry with a towel and make sure they have plenty of warm bedding. Be aware that antifreeze and rock salt can be poisonous to pets."