Temperatures could plunge to -15C in Highlands tomorrow night
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A major change in the weather is under way for the UK, as cold air moves in from the north bringing snow, ice and plunging temperatures in the Highlands.
Warnings for snow and ice have been issued with the initial focus of the most impactful snow in the region and North-East.
The Met Office has said further warnings are likely to be issued throughout the week.
In excess of 20 centimetres of snow could accumulate over high ground in Scotland and more than five centimetres is likely to accumulate even to lower levels in some parts of the north.
Met Office Chief Meteorologist Dan Suri said: “Snow, ice and low temperatures are the main themes of this week’s forecast, as the UK comes under the influence of an arctic maritime airmass as cold air moves in from the north.
“Snow is already falling in parts of the north where some travel disruption likely, as well as a chance of some rural communities being cut off.
"Snow showers will continue through today and Tuesday here, and Northern Ireland will also be subject to some snow showers, especially over high ground.
“Ice will provide an additional hazard for many with overnight low temperatures well below 0°C for many."
Ice will be an additional hazard for many through the week, with sub-zero temperatures creating some hazardous travel conditions.
Temperatures could drop as low as -15°C overnight on Tuesday in some sheltered Scottish glens especially where there’s fresh snow cover.
Light snow has started to fall in Aviemore but is yet to settle.
Dale Hipkiss, National Network Manager at National Highways, said: “Keeping a kit of essential items like a torch and warm clothes, in your vehicle, can be vital in case you and your passengers become stranded in winter.
"Freezing conditions bring so many hazards such as snow and ice and take every possible step to understand your journey in advance and allow lots of extra time when travelling to prepare for the unexpected.
“It is therefore always important to plan ahead for your journey, listen to the weather forecasts, and if weather conditions become challenging, adjust your driving behaviour and take extra care.”
Stay up to date with the Met Office forecast on social media, through its weather warnings and by checking its mountain area forecasts which are written by trained meteorologists and are available under specialist forecasts on the Met Office website.
