Large parts of Scotland are bracing for a prolonged 'Arctic blast' with freezing temperatures, snow and ice forecast, the Met Office has warned.
A yellow 'be aware' warning for snow and ice is in place from Wednesday to midday Thursday, covering the Highlands, Moray, Angus and the Northern Isles. Accumulations of up to 5cm are possible at lower levels, with up to 10cm above 200m.
Strong northerly winds could bring drifting and blizzard conditions, with ice likely on untreated surfaces. Additional warnings for ice are in place for eastern and southern areas into Friday.
The cold spell follows a wet and mild November. Last year, Scotland was battered by Storm Barra just days after Storm Arwen caused widespread damage.
BBC Scotland Weather's Judith Ralston said the air source is Arctic, making this a typical but early wintery spell. Night-time temperatures could fall to -6C widely across Scotland.
