12:11 04 December 2013
BBC Scotland weather forecaster Christopher Blanchett said: "On Thursday, a deep area of low pressure runs west to east across the far north of Scotland.
"This will lead to a spell of severe, windy weather for most of the country and some snowfall.
"While it is not unusual to see a low pressure area of this depth in Scotland during the winter months, they are not very frequent and can cause some disruption."
The Met Office has issued an early Yellow “be aware” warning however, authorities confirmed that this could be upgraded to amber later on. The office also advises of the potential for significant disruption particularly to transport, through the central belt during Thursday morning.
Christopher Blanchett added: After the winds ease, a north or north westerly flow of air will give an arctic blast of cold weather, leading to frequent and heavy snow showers.
"These are most likely across the north of the mainland, including to low levels in Inverness and Aberdeen on Thursday afternoon and night.
"Accumulations of 2cm to 5cm are possible in places, although by their nature not everyone will see these showers."