Warnings of snow and gale force winds have been issued by the Met Office for Wednesday through to Friday.
Blizzard conditions are forecast for periods in exposed coastal areas and high ground on Wednesday and Thursday as falling snow is whipped up by 60mph winds.
Cold northerly winds will continue to bring frequent snow showers into Friday.
There is also a risk of hail and thunder in some locations.
Jenny Rourke, deputy chief operational meteorologist, said: “A cold spell of weather will affect the UK from Wednesday onwards.
“With strong northwesterly winds all areas will feel the cold and there will be snow showers, especially in northern and western areas.
“We’ve issued weather warnings for snow and wind and we advise people to check the latest forecast and weather warnings before they travel.”
The Met Office said the band of cold air originating over Arctic Canada will affect much of Scotland.
Lightning may accompany the heaviest showers, with potential disruption to power supplies as a consequence.
As well as reduced visibility, up to five centimetres of snow could accumulate with
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Drivers are urged to be aware the conditions could bring very poor travel conditions.
Lying and blowing snow gives the potential for disruption to transport.
Heavy snow and wind warning
9 January 2017