A major incident has been declared in Aberdeenshire as heavy snow brings travel and public services to a standstill. The amber weather warning, covering much of the region and north-east Scotland, remains in place until 7pm tonight, with a further yellow warning for snow and ice expected from midnight Tuesday to midnight Wednesday.
All schools have been closed, and several roads, railway lines, and flights at Aberdeen Airport have been disrupted. Snowblowers have been deployed to clear routes that cannot be ploughed, while the A952 Toll of Birness route reopened on Monday after being closed due to heavy snowfall.
Bin collections will be attempted in Fraserburgh, Macduff, Whitehills, and Banff on Tuesday, but residents in other areas are advised to take bins back in. All vaccination centres in Aberdeenshire remain closed, and Peterhead Minor Injury Unit is temporarily shut due to staff unable to travel. GP capacity is significantly reduced, with residents urged to check for local updates.
Homecare teams are working to reach the most vulnerable clients wherever possible and will stay in contact with families. Aberdeenshire Council stated: 'Aberdeenshire will continue to experience heavy snowfall today and overnight – some of which will fall as icy rain – which has the potential to cause further disruption. We appreciate that this is a very challenging time for many of you and particularly those living in our most rural locations and smaller settlements – and our teams are working to support individuals who are struggling.'
Residents are urged to check on neighbours, especially the elderly, vulnerable, or those living alone.
