Scotland is on high alert as severe wintry weather sweeps across the country, prompting the Met Office to issue urgent amber snow warnings. The dangerous conditions are expected to bring significant disruption to travel and daily life throughout Friday and into the weekend.
Amber Warnings Signal Severe Disruption
Forecasters have escalated alerts, with two separate amber warnings for heavy snow coming into force at midday on Friday. These cover parts of the Highlands and north-east Scotland. The amber alert warns that accumulations of 10-20cm are likely at low levels, with a staggering 30-40cm possible on higher ground. Strong winds accompanying the snowfall could lead to temporary blizzard conditions, severely reducing visibility.
A broader yellow warning for snow and ice already blankets the country as far south as Angus and Perthshire. This warning remains active until midnight on Friday. Over the weekend, the alert zone expands further south, covering areas down to Perth, Dundee, and southern parts of Argyll and Bute until Sunday midnight.
Road Closures and Travel Advice Issued
The deteriorating conditions have already led to action on the roads. Traffic Scotland confirmed the closure of several key snow gates on Friday morning, including those on the A93 Braemar-Glenshee, A939 Tomintoul-Cockbridge, B974 Cairn O’Mount-Fettercairn, and at Bealach na Ba.
Police Scotland is urging the public to reconsider any non-essential travel. Chief Superintendent Scott McCarren, head of road policing, advised: "Plan ahead and consider if your journey is really necessary during the bad weather or if it can be delayed until conditions improve." He strongly warned motorists not to ignore road closures, which are implemented for public safety.
Widespread Impact on Transport and Communities
The Met Office has indicated that the severe weather will have wide-reaching consequences:
- Difficult driving conditions are expected across many parts of Scotland.
- Delays and cancellations to rail and air travel are likely.
- Power cuts may occur.
- Some rural communities risk becoming cut off.
Air travel is also affected. Aberdeen Airport advised passengers to check their flight status before travelling, although teams are working to keep the airfield operational. Scotland’s Transport Secretary, Fiona Hyslop, echoed the travel warnings, urging people to consult the Traffic Scotland website and social media channels for the latest updates on trunk roads and to check with transport operators before setting off.
The amber snow warnings are scheduled to remain in place until noon on Saturday, with the public advised to stay informed and prepare for continued freezing temperatures and challenging conditions.
