Freezing air from Russia is expected to blast Scotland with one of the coldest wintry spells of weather in recent years.
The big freeze, which has been nicknamed the Beast from the East, is forecast to arrive early next week.
In some towns and cities the mercury could plummet as low as -8C.
It could drop even further in areas on higher ground in the Cairngorms and Grampians.
The sub-zero temperatures are expected to be the lowest recorded during a Scottish February for five years.
However, while southern parts of the UK are preparing to be gripped by the chill this weekend, the north and north-east of Scotland will be given a slight reprieve.
Temperatures are forecast to drop rapidly on Monday, to around 1C, but only light snow flurries are expected.
From Tuesday, heavier showers will descend upon the region, lingering for the remainder of the week.
Robin Steel, a meteorologist with the Met Office, said: “Initially over the weekend it won’t be too bad, but it’s really across next week we will see the chilly easterlies setting in.
“There will be light snow showers on Monday, and these probably won’t accumulate too much.
“It’s Tuesday when we will probably see an increased risk of snowfall.”
The cold snap has prompted calls to ensure elderly or vulnerable neighbours and relatives are well looked after.
Malcolm Farrow, from heating trade body OFTEC, said: “This time of year can be a real struggle for many people across Scotland, especially following the expensive festive period.
“As a result, some households resort to turning down their heating in an effort to save money.
“However, this puts people at greater risk of developing health complications, especially if they are older and more vulnerable.
“With incidences of a particularly virulent flu strain also rife this year, it is more important than ever to regularly visit vulnerable relatives, friends and neighbours to check they are keeping warm and their heating system is working correctly.”
