Emergency services have asked people to keep an eye on elderly neighbours ensuring that they have enough supplies to get through the week until at least Saturday afternoon as temperatures plummet.
Increasing numbers of meteorologists are now claiming that up to 15 inches (40 cm) of snow will start falling from either tonight or tomorrow morning as daytime temperatures drop to -2c.
If the forecasters predictions are true then emergency personnel have asked that people mind their elderly neighbours, make sure that all animals are well cared for and have enough supplies and fuel to get through the week.
Major disruptions to public transport, businesses, schools and motorways are expected if the snowfall piles up as heavily as expected.