Black ice and deep snow set to bring transport chaos across the country
SCOTLAND is set to be hit by travel chaos today as heavy snowfall and icy conditions sweep the country.
The Met Office has issued an amber ‘be prepared’ alert, with up to 16 inches of snow expected to fall in some areas.
A separate wind and rain warning was issued for coastal areas, with flooding and power cuts expected.
Drivers were also warned there is a risk of rain freezing as it hits roads.
Up to two inches of snow can be expected in many low-lying areas. Perthshire and Aberdeenshire are expected to be worst hit.
Up to eight inches is possible on higher ground, with 16 inches falling on the highest peaks.
The Met Office say a huge region of high pressure over Scandinavia will pull in freezing winds from the Baltic region and clash with a wet weather front from the Atlantic, causing snow and ice. Will Lang at the Met Office said: ‘Saturday’s weather brings a range of winter hazards with very dangerous travelling conditions likely.
‘In addition to snow, freezing rain will bring widespread ice on Saturday afternoon.
‘Freezing rain forms when rain freezes on impact as it hits a cold surface – it is quite rare in the UK.
‘Many will know it as black ice and the danger is it forms quickly, is difficult to see and is incredibly slippery.’ He added that temperatures tomorrow night could dip as low as -3C (26F).
It is feared the freezing rain will cause a travel blackout with buses, rail and air expected to be affected. Stein Connelly, of Transport Scotland, said: ‘This weather has potential to cause travel disruption, particularly over higher routes.’
Anyone with a Loganair flight to or from Inverness, Edinburgh or Glasgow this weekend is being given the chance to book an alternative flight before next Sunday.
CalMac has already cancelled ferries out of Oban, Fionnphort, Berneray, Mallaig and Tarbert.
Thousands of revellers are expected to be planning Christmas nights out. NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde’s director of public health, Dr Linda de Caestecker, said: ‘Wear shoes or boots with good grip, and if going to a stylish party take fashion shoes with you.’
Transport Secretary Michael Matheson said: ‘Drivers should plan their routes, leave plenty of time, follow Police Scotland travel advice and drive to the conditions.’
‘Very dangerous conditions’