Northern Scotland is grappling with severe disruption after being hit by heavy snowfall, leading to the closure of hundreds of schools and significant travel problems across road, rail, and air networks.
Widespread School Closures and Weather Warnings
A yellow weather warning for snow and ice remains active across much of the country as far south as Perth until the end of Monday, 5 January 2026. An amber warning for heavy snow showers covering Shetland, Orkney, and parts of the Highlands and Aberdeenshire expired at 10am. The adverse conditions have forced numerous schools to shut their doors.
Pupils in Shetland, Orkney, the Western Isles, and Aberdeenshire have gained an unexpected extra day of holiday. Dozens of schools in Moray are also closed. In Aberdeen city, dozens of schools remained shut for the entire day after an initial decision to delay opening until 11am.
Major Transport Networks Grind to a Halt
The transport sector has been severely impacted. ScotRail warned of disruption on routes around Aberdeen and Inverness for much of Monday. Network Rail Scotland stated that key lines, including Aberdeen to Dundee, Aberdeen to Inverness, Inverness to Wick/Thurso, and Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh, were unlikely to run until midday due to heavy and drifting snow.
LNER services will not call at stations north of Edinburgh until at least 2pm. Air travel has also suffered, with Loganair cancelling flights from Aberdeen and Inverness airports. Several flights to and from Sumburgh Airport in Shetland and departures from Kirkwall Airport in Orkney were also axed.
Official Warnings and Response
Speaking to BBC Radio Scotland's Breakfast programme, First Minister John Swinney acknowledged the challenges. "It is tough for people in the north east of Scotland and the Highlands and islands," he said, noting a "substantial operation" was underway to restore transport networks. He expressed optimism about reopening rail routes but highlighted ongoing challenges on the Dundee-Aberdeen line.
Police Scotland's Assistant Chief Constable Alan Waddell urged caution. "The forecasted heavy snow showers and ice means driving conditions are likely to be hazardous," he said. He advised the public to plan ahead, consider if journeys are necessary, and not to drive through road closures.
Scotland's Transport Secretary, Fiona Hyslop, echoed the safety message. "If you have to travel then please ensure your vehicle is winter ready and have a winter kit in your car," she urged, advising people to follow Police Scotland travel advice and delay journeys if possible.
