Weather: Heavy Snow As 80mph Winds Blow In

Gale-force winds have led to giant waves of up to 65ft high in Scotland, amid warnings of more severe weather across the UK.

After a brief respite, freezing temperatures and strong gusts will be felt in many parts of the UK over the coming days.

And researchers recording waves off the north west coast of the Isle of Lewis, off Scotland's west coast, said average peaks measured between 13 and 14 metres (42-45ft) during the day - with some as high as 20 metres (65ft).

Scotland was expected to experience gusts of 70mph to 80mph and up to four inches (10cm) of snow was forecast to spread from the north to many parts.

Areas of higher ground in the south will also see accumulations.

Sky News weather producer Christopher England said: "There will be drifting in the stiff wind and blizzard conditions are likely at times. The blustery winds will be a hazard to high-sided vehicles too, with north-south routes most at risk.

"Snow showers will extend to most parts overnight, although they will tend to die back towards western coasts later, and with a widespread frost developing, there will be a risk of ice."

The Met Office has issued a yellow "be aware" snow warning from 4pm to midnight. It said the wintry showers will turn to snow inland and there is a 70% probability of low temperatures and icy conditions.

Temperatures will drop to -2C overnight but the wind chill factor will make it feel much colder.

Further snow showers are expected on Tuesday as temperatures will continue to fall through the week, mainly in the north, bringing a risk of ice to untreated surfaces.

Snow storms brought parts of the country to a standstill at the end of last month.

On January 25 hundreds of drivers were forced to spend the night in their cars on the M6 in Lancashire after more than a foot of snow fell.

The snow was followed by widespread floods caused by the thaw and heavy rain.