Fresh amber warning for snow issued for much of Scotland

Further disruption expected to transport network  

Heavy snowfall across much of Scotland is expected to bring further disruption to the transport network this weekend.

The Met Office has issued a fresh amber warning for snow for central and northeastern Scotland, covering an area from Tyndrum to Grantown-on-Spey to Banchory. Valid on Sunday morning from approximately 0300 – 1400.

Wider yellow warnings for challenging weather conditions - including snow, rain, and ice - remain in place for the country across the remainder of the weekend into Monday.

The forecast conditions are expected to impact both road and rail networks, with the potential for challenging driving conditions and route closures, as well as delays and service cancellations. More widely, there is a possibility of power cuts and a potential risk to life and property. People and communities should consider travel plans and take action to minimise these risks. There is a high risk of disruption in amber areas and drivers are advised to follow police advice on the conditions.

Transport Scotland has activated the Multi-Agency Response Team to provide shared situational awareness, monitor and reaction to developing conditions and providing engagement with partner agencies affected by the forecast weather whilst continuing to support frontline staff and resilience partners as required.

Assistant Chief Constable Alan Waddell said:  

“Local resilience partnerships are continuing to meet to co-ordinate and deliver the response to disruption experienced by communities in the north and north east of Scotland following heavy snowfall over the last few days.

“We have been working closely with resilience partners across local authorities, other emergency service partners, transport partners, NHS and health and social care partnerships, and other local organisations to support communities affected by adverse weather and keep public services open where possible. Some services may be impacted by adverse weather, and I would encourage the public to check on neighbours or relatives, if they are able to do so safely.

“Significant gritting and road / footpath clearing operations continue to improve connectivity in communities, however this will take time to complete and may be impacted by further forecast snowfall. Care for People groups continue to contact individuals identified as vulnerable and are supporting them.

“Impacts from the heavy snowfall and ice, in addition to potential for some flooding as temperatures rise, means that driving conditions may be hazardous in some areas. Our advice is to plan ahead and consider if your journey is really necessary.

“If you need to travel, please fully clear your vehicle windows of snow and ice before you drive, drive to the conditions, be prepared for delays and allow extra time for your journey.

“Wet conditions can also cause spray which reduces driver visibility. Drivers should be aware of increased stopping distances, which will be at least double those required for stopping on dry roads.

“Driving through areas of flooding can result in catastrophic damage to your vehicle. It may also result in the road becoming blocked with recovery required and may delay emergency services and road maintenance workers.”