Scotland gears up for big freeze in coldest winter

Thermometer set to plunge to well below freezing as meteorologists predict Scotland’s harshest winter since records began

This winter could be the coldest ever in Scotland.

With temperatures plunging, bookmakers have cut the odds on a record-breaking cold snap.

Lows of -12C are predicted within the next few weeks, with snow also on the cards.

Scotland will be colder than the Arctic Circle, leading transport providers and local authorities to gear up for a big freeze.

A spokesman for Ladbrokes said: “It’s ‘snow’ surprise punters are backing this winter to be the coldest on record.”

The firm has slashed the odds on winter being the coldest ever – beating 1962-63’s UK average temperature of -0.18C – to 5-2.

Meanwhile, Network Rail has revealed it will use a thermal-imaging helicopter and 34 de-icing trains to keep tracks clear. Empty “ghost trains” will also run at night in a bid to clear snow and ice ahead of peak commuting times.

A Network Rail spokesman said: “Our thermal-imaging helicopter carries out aerial inspections to guide engineers to points heaters that aren’t working effectively.”

A total of around 5,000 gritters are on standby across Scotland.

Transport Minister Humza Yousaf said: “Our winter service capability has never been higher.

“There is no room for complacency despite the recent mild winters.”

A Transport Scotland spokesperson added: “We plan across the year for our winter service.”

Local authorities have resilience plans in place for winter, with a spokesman for the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities saying: “Scotland’s councils take their duty very seriously.”

Edinburgh Airport has 20 snow and ice-clearing vehicles and 80 staff on standby.

An airport spokesman said: “We’ll be working round the clock to make sure weather has the least impact possible on our passengers.”

Glasgow Airport is understood to have 18 snow-clearing vehicles available.

The Met Office said temperatures could hit lows of -7C tonight and -10C tomorrow night.

While daytime totals should rise above 0C, Arctic windchill will leave it feeling much colder.

Our winter service capability has never been higher. There is no room for complacency despite the recent mild winters