Heavy snow and gusts of up to 70mph are set to hit Scotland as temperatures plunge to -10C.

Severe weather warnings have been issued ahead of extreme weather expected to arrive on Wednesday.

The Arctic blast is forecast to blow into the north west of Scotland from Canada before spreading across the country, bringing gale-force winds and rain, with snow later in the week.

STV weatherman Sean Batty said: "This week temperatures started around 8C to 9C but by the end of the week highs will be 3C to 5C.

"Overnight temperatures could drop to below -10C in the Highlands, where snow is lying later in the week.

"The wintry weather will start on Wednesday with the cold air, which is originating from Arctic Canada, spreading in from the north west.

"There will be frequent showers throughout the day - especially further west - with some heavier than others."

He added: "By Thursday morning, there's a possibility that a few centimetres of snow will have accumulated in some lower parts, while areas a bit higher in the west could see around 5cm.

"On Thursday, a strong north westerly wind will give eastern areas more shelter, so showers should ease with more in the way of drier and sunnier weather here.

"In the west, showers will remain fairly frequent with a mixture of rain, sleet and snow.

"Friday starts very showery for many areas, although the central belt may be a bit more sheltered with fewer showers here. A lot of dry and bright weather is expected in the afternoon."

The Met Office has warned widespread disruption to travel is likely before the weather begins to improve at the weekend.

A forecaster said: "Very windy weather with gusts to 70mph or more may affect the far northwest and north of Scotland overnight.

"After a brief lull winds will increase during Wednesday afternoon and evening, accompanied by increasingly wintry showers.

"By evening several cm of snow will begin to accumulate away from western coasts, especially over higher ground.

"In combination with gale force winds, gusting up to 65mph near showers, travel conditions will start to turn very tricky, resulting in longer travel travel times."

On Tuesday, west coast ferry operator CalMac warned at least 22 of its 26 routes would be disrupted or were under threat of disruption.

Some Northlink sailings between Aberdeen and Shetland are also likely to be delayed or cancelled.