Forecasters have issued a weather warning as the north braces itself to be battered with wind and snow.
The yellow warning, meaning be aware, will be in place from 6pm on Wednesday until noon on Thursday.
The Met Office warned that gusts of up to 55mph are expected in coastal areas and hills, while up to 6cm is predicted.
A spokesman said: “Snow showers are expected to develop from Wednesday evening lasting into Thursday.
“These, combined with strong winds, could lead to very poor travel conditions.
“Be aware of the potential for disruption to transport due to lying and blowing snow.”
The Met Office’s Chief Forecaster warned: “Cold air originating over Arctic Canada will affect the area from Wednesday evening through Thursday, bringing snow showers and strong winds.
A yellow severe weather warning for #snow & #wind has just been issued. https://t.co/BCvhZPrXum Stay #weatheraware @metofficeuk pic.twitter.com/s1XOvGzArL
— Met Office (@metoffice) January 9, 2017
“Wind gusts up to 55 mph are expected in exposed coastal areas and on hills in association with snow showers, leading to temporary blizzard conditions.
“As well as reduced visibility, 2-5 cm of snow could accumulate anywhere within the warning area, with 10-20 cm possible above 300 m.
“Lightning may accompany the heaviest showers, with potential disruption to power supplies as a consequence.”