The Met Office has escalated weather warnings for Scotland, issuing a fresh amber alert for snow across central and north-eastern regions. This comes after a week of severe wintry conditions that have already caused significant travel chaos and forced hundreds of schools to close.
Timing and Impact of the Amber Warning
The amber warning for snow is active from approximately 3am until 2pm on Sunday, 11 January 2026. Forecasters predict heavy snowfall during this period, which is expected to severely impact road and rail networks. Broader yellow warnings for snow, rain, and ice remain in force across much of the country for the rest of the weekend and into Monday.
ScotRail has warned passengers that service disruptions are "likely." Mark Ilderton, ScotRail Service Delivery Director, urged travellers to check their entire journey via the company's website, app, or social media channels before setting out. "We may also see speed restrictions implemented across parts of the network meaning that some journeys may take longer than usual," he stated.
Official Advice and Ongoing Disruption
Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop is encouraging people in the affected areas to reconsider their travel plans. "If you are in the area covered by the amber warning, you should consider delaying journeys if you can and working from home if that is an option," she advised. She also extended thanks to frontline staff who have been battling the conditions for over ten days.
The north and north-east of Scotland have endured several days of sub-zero temperatures, ice, and persistent snowfall. This has led to:
- Over 250 schools remaining closed on Friday, including more than 150 in Aberdeenshire alone.
- Many pupils facing a full week off at the start of the new term, with remote learning provided where possible.
- The closure of the Inverness-Wick railway line and numerous local roads.
First Minister John Swinney visited Aberdeen on Friday to thank gritter operators, police, and depot staff. "It has been a really challenging period for everybody," he acknowledged, praising the public for their patience.
Community Resilience and Further Precautions
Authorities continue to stress community preparedness. Aberdeenshire Council declared a major incident earlier in the week, warning that some rural communities could be cut off. Assistant Chief Constable Alan Waddell of Police Scotland encouraged the public to check on neighbours or relatives safely if possible.
While main routes in the north have been cleared, the situation remains precarious. Ministers held a meeting with police, local authorities, and other agencies on Friday to coordinate the ongoing response to what is proving to be a prolonged and severe winter weather event.
