The thaw could result in flooding in parts of eastern Scotland, it has been warned.
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency, which operates the Floodline service, said it was monitoring river levels as temperatures rose.
A spokesman said, “This rise in temperature will result in the thaw of lying snow, particularly in lowland areas, and this will lead to an increase in river levels in these areas.
“The thaw is expected to be gradual without any significant contribution from rainfall. The frozen ground may impede drainage and surface water may accumulate in low-lying areas or be ponded by frozen drains or blockages caused by ice.”
He added, “Although a rapid thaw is not expected, the large quantities of snow, particularly in eastern and northern Scotland, may cause river levels to rise sufficiently for flood watches to be issued in some areas.
“People should exercise caution in areas of ponded water and near blocked drains.”
The spokesman said, “Even if river flooding is unlikely, flooding problems may still occur locally due to blocked drains and standing water.
“People can help to reduce potential problems around their own properties, for example by checking that ice isn’t blocking drains, and clearing it if safe to do so.”
Floodline has constantly updated information about the risk of river and coastal flooding.
It is available by calling 0845 988 1188 or online.
However, the agency said that predicting river levels or the chance of flooding when snow is melting is “quite a tough challenge.”
The spokesman said, “After an extensive and deep fall of snow, there is always a risk of flooding. Recent snow in Scotland has, in places, been as deep as 50cm.
“When this amount of fresh snow melts it releases about 50mm of rainfall equivalent, which is what might be experienced in a fairly severe rainstorm.”