Snow alert upgraded
THE Met Office has upgraded its weather warning from yellow to amber as Glasgow endures another day of heavy snow and travel misery.
Traffic Scotland has warned of a “high risk of disruption” as Police Scotland also issued a stage-three warning for the city and its surrounding areas.
In effect until 10pm tonight, the Met Office warning said: “Snow showers will become heavier and more frequent early on Friday and will continue on and off through the day.”
FRESH amber “be prepared” warnings of snow and ice have been issued for Glasgow.
Forecasters warn that delays on the roads and public transport cancellations are likely, while vehicles may become stranded in some places.
The Met Office warning, which also covers central and southern Scotland, Tayside and Fife, is valid until 10pm today.
It warns of heavy snow showers with up to 12in (30cm) possible over the highest routes, and up to 4in (10cm) at lower levels.
Forecasters said there is a chance of power cuts, while some rural communities may be cut off.
Police have warned there is a “high risk” of disruption and urged people to drive to the conditions.
Superintendent Louise Blakelock, of Police Scotland’s road policing department, said: “We’ve been working closely with our colleagues at Transport Scotland, the Met Office and local councils to assess the conditions.
“Therefore, for the duration of this updated warning, there is a high risk of disruption for road journeys and there is a high likelihood of the conditions for travel being very poor.
“Those heading out on the roads should be aware of these risks – ensure you have a fully charged phone, warm clothing, and leave extra time for your journey.
“Drive to the road conditions and make sure you check the most up-todate information from Traffic Scotland and the Met Office before heading out. Our priority is to ensure the public are safe.”
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon urged people to be careful, tweeting: “Travel conditions likely to be difficult so please take care, follow advice @trafficscotland – and only travel if you have to.”
Traffic Scotland is providing regu- lar updates on social media, as well as through its website and radio broadcasts, with travellers being asked to check the latest information before they set off.
The Multi Agency Response Team (MART), involving partner organisations, such as Police Scotland, continues to monitor conditions and make sure that the public has the latest information.
The Scottish Government’s Resil- ience operation (SGoRR) will meet today to receive the latest update on the situation.
Transport Minister Humza Yousaf said: “An updated and upgraded Met Office warning for Amber for heavy snow covering the west and southwest has been issued. This will impact on the AM and PM rush hour and throughout the day.
“SGoRR is up and running and colleagues is in close contact with TS Resilience and MART teams and the Police Scotland multi-agency response team in Glasgow, as we have been throughout the night.
“Motorists should consider avoiding peak journey times and whether they can delay or avoid travelling.
“Our winter maintenance teams are continuing to prepare the trunk road network and stand ready to react to changing conditions, treating roads and helping motorists where required.
“My advice, as always, is to take extra time to plan your journey, listen to police advice and drive to the conditions. Motorists can use the Traffic Scotland mobile website – my.trafficscotland.org – to get the latest information on the move, as well as check the @trafficscotland twitter page for updates.
“If you’re travelling by rail, ferry or air, please check with your operators to make sure your service has not been affected by the conditions.”