Could it snow in Scotland this weekend? Here's the latest weather forecast

This week has seen a considerable drop in temperatures - a noticeable change from the mild weather many parts of the UK have experienced this autumn.

Conditions are now turning much colder as the weekend approaches, and some parts of the UK could see snow.

Arctic air and snowy weather

According to the Met Office, “As high pressure becomes anchored to the west of the UK, cold arctic air will move south across the country from the north, bringing cold conditions to most by the weekend.

“We can expect to see overnight frosts and ice in places, with even snow over the hills in the north.”

Although the UK as a whole is set to feel the drop in temperatures as October comes to a close, it is mainly the north which is currently set to see snowy weather conditions.

Met Office Chief Meteorologist, Laura Paterson, said, “It will feel very cold this weekend, with strong winds bringing heavy showers to many parts. Northern facing coastal areas will see the most frequent showers, whilst elsewhere will see more in the way of sunshine.

“These showers could contain hail, and turn to snow on the high ground, mainly Scotland, Northern Ireland and perhaps northern England.”

Weekend weather forecast

Saturday is set to be the coldest day, with a peak temperature of 7C in most areas of Scotland.

Temperatures will recover slightly for Sunday, with showers becoming more confined to eastern areas of the UK.

According to the Met Office, this weekend in Scotland will see “sunshine and isolated wintry showers, though occasional showers develop for a time near the east coast. Turning much colder with night frosts inland. Strong gusty North winds.”

Stein Connelly from Transport Scotland said, "Snow, sleet and ice look set to move into parts of Scotland at the end of this week, particularly over higher routes. Our operating companies have already started their winter services and will closely monitor the trunk road network, providing appropriate treatments where necessary.

“As always, we encourage motorists to plan their journeys ahead of time, follow police travel advice and drive to the conditions. Drivers can‎ use the Traffic Scotland mobile website - my.trafficscotland.org - to get the latest information on the trunk road network, as well as check the @trafficscotland twitter page for updates."

Next week then looks set to be less cold for much of the country, but looking more unsettled by the middle of the week.