The northern reaches of Scotland are facing another day of severe winter weather, with the Met Office extending its yellow warning for snow and ice throughout Thursday.
Widespread Disruption and Hazards
The cold snap, driven by cold Arctic air from the north, is creating hazardous conditions across much of the region. The Met Office has highlighted a significant risk of travel delays on roads, with potential for cancellations to public transport services. The public is also warned about an increased risk of injury from slips and falls on slippery surfaces.
Further potential impacts include possible power cuts and disruptions to mobile phone coverage, with a chance that some rural communities could become temporarily cut off. The warning is scheduled to remain in effect until 9pm on Thursday.
Real-World Impacts and Closures
The severe conditions are already causing significant problems. On Thursday morning, the A90 in Aberdeen was closed in both directions between the Cleanhill and Stonehaven roundabouts due to heavy snow, with reports of numerous vehicles becoming stuck. Police have advised motorists to avoid the area entirely.
The persistent bad weather has also forced the closure of many schools across the Highlands and Aberdeenshire throughout the week, disrupting education for thousands of pupils.
Forecaster's Insight on the Cold Snap
Met Office chief forecaster, Neil Armstrong, stated that this is the UK's first notable cold spell of the autumn, providing an early taste of winter. He confirmed that the coldest conditions were expected on Wednesday and Thursday.
While not all areas will see settling snow, Armstrong indicated that frequent wintry showers could lead to accumulations of 2-5cm in exposed areas. On higher ground in Scotland, he warned that 15-20cm of snow could accumulate, creating particularly dangerous travelling conditions.
