Getty ImagesHeavy snow and gale-force winds have been forecast for north and north east Scotland at the start of the new year.
The Met Office has issued a yellow “be aware” warning from 06:00 on Thursday – New Year’s Day – until midnight on Friday.
It said there could be up to two inches (5cm) of snow at low levels by Friday, with four inches (10cm) in some places.
Up to eight inches (20cm) of snow could accumulate on higher ground, with as much as 12 inches (30cm) on the hills. There is a warning of “significant” drifting of snow due to the high winds.
The warning includes the Northern Isles, Hebrides and parts of Argyll and Bute.
The Met Office said it was likely that frequent and heavy snow showers would disrupt travel.
In England, two amber health alerts have been issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
The alerts, which warn of a rise in deaths particularly among elderly and vulnerable people, cover the North East and North West of England until 12:00 on 5 January.
Temperatures in these regions are expected to fall to around -4C, with snow predicted in the North West on 3 and 4 January.
