A warning for snow and lightning is in force across the Falkirk area with residents being told to prepare for possible power cuts.
The Yellow 'be aware' alert is active until 8pm tomorrow evening, Thursday February 24.
Forecasters say that frequent heavy snow showers are expected, along with very gusty winds and a chance of frequent lightning in some places.
As much as 7cm of the white stuff could fall at low levels, with up to 20cm over higher ground.
Blizzard conditions are also likely because of the strong wind.
A Met Office spokesperson said: "Temperatures across Scotland and Northern Ireland are expected to drop sharply following a squally band of rain on Wednesday, with frequent heavy and blustery snow showers arriving from the Atlantic.
"Away from immediate west-facing coasts, 1 to 3cm, and in places 3 to 7cm of snow is likely to build up even at low levels, whereas on higher ground some places could see 10 to 20cm building up by Thursday morning.
"The showers will be accompanied by strong, blustery winds, with gusts of 45-55 mph possible, and a chance of 65 mph on coasts.
"Blizzard conditions are likely over higher ground.
"There is a small chance that some of the showers could be accompanied by frequent lightning, which could impact power supplies, including some places outside of the warning area.
"Snow showers are increasingly likely to turn back to rain and sleet at low levels later Thursday morning and early afternoon, although remaining as snow above 200-300m."
What to expect
- There is a small chance of longer journey times or cancellations as road, rail, air and ferry services are affected. There is also a chance some vehicles and passengers could become stranded.
- There is a slight chance that power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage
- There is a slight chance that some rural communities could become cut off
- A small chance of injuries and danger to life from lightning strikes
- Where lightning strikes occur, there is a small chance that building/structures could be damaged
