Snow could hit Scotland this week according to the Met Office, which has predicted bitter temperatures in the north of the country. 

The forecasts would mean winter arriving extremely early, bringing frosty conditions just as autumn is getting officially underway. 

Here's what the snow forecast looks like over the coming day...

What is the snow forecast in Scotland?

Temperatures in Scotland are set to drop to single figures in the coming days, even bringing snow to some areas.  

In fact, it could plummet as low as -11 in northern areas with an increased liklihood of snow on higher ground. 

Forecasters have described the predicted snow storms as "rare" for this time of year, with snow in October unusual even in the mountains. 

The snow will result in poor conditions for hiking in the hills, including mist and fog in areas like Ben Nevis and Glencoe. 

While it may not reach freezing in Glasgow and Edinburgh, highs of 9 degrees are anticipated, which will certainly feel much cooler than recent conditions which have hovered around the high teens. 

Aberdeen and Inverness are likely to see similar temperatures, peaking at a cool 8 degrees. 

A forecaster for the Met Office said: "From Thursday, temperatures will fall below average for most, increasing the likelihood of snow over higher ground in the North."

With Ben Nevis predicted to see light to moderate snow showers from Wednesday October 20, it certainly looks like our unseasonably warm temperatures are about to come to an abrupt end.