STORM Caroline is set to descend on the UK tomorrow, bringing with it strong winds, snow and freezing temperatures.

Gusts of up to 80mph are set to batter Scotland's north-facing coasts on Thursday, followed by a rush of cold air.

Snow and freezing temperatures have been forecast on Friday and Saturday for much of the UK.

Southampton residents are unlikely to wake up to snow on Friday, but will feel a notable drop in temperatures from Thursday night.

Temperatures will be as high 12 degrees tomorrow, but could plummet as low as 3 degrees by 9am on Friday – and feel as low as freezing.

Weather experts say conditions could cause travel disruptions.

Met Office chief meteorologist, Steve Ramsdale, said: “The strongest winds will reach the northwest of Scotland early on Thursday, extending to Northeast Scotland and the Northern Isles in the afternoon,

"With the return of air from a northwesterly direction – with its origins in the Arctic – snow showers will become increasingly frequent and heavy across northern Scotland during Thursday evening.”

The Met Office has also issued a Yellow National Severe Weather Warning for snow and ice for Friday.

The warning covers much of Scotland, Northern Ireland, Wales and western England.

Steve Ramsdale added: “Our warning shows that 2-5 cm of snow is likely for some, with 10-20 cm possible over high ground, mainly Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales.

"Icy surfaces are also likely to be an additional hazard, especially overnight and during the morning."