Winter Weather Alerts: Snow and Ice Threaten Monday Commute
Severe winter weather is set to impact areas in Scotland, with snow and ice creating hazards for commuters on Monday. The Met Office has issued amber weather warnings for snow across Shetland, Orkney, and parts of northern mainland Scotland. These warnings are active from 18:00 GMT on Sunday to 10:00 on Monday.
Snow Accumulation and Weather Conditions
Recent heavy snowfall has left some regions, particularly Moray, with over 40cm of snow. Winds in the area have exacerbated the situation, causing significant drifting. Network Rail Scotland reported snow drifts reaching up to 1.2 meters (4 feet) along the rail line connecting Aberdeen and Dundee.
Flight and Transport Disruptions
- Loganair has canceled flights from Aberdeen and Inverness airports due to the severe weather.
- The weather is expected to worsen overnight, with an additional 20 to 30cm of snow predicted.
- Road and rail closures are anticipated, along with potential power disruptions.
Impact on Schools and Services
The adverse weather conditions have led to the closure of numerous schools across northern Scotland. In specific, schools in Aberdeenshire, Shetland, and Orkney will not reopen as scheduled after the Christmas holidays. Additionally, schools in Aberdeen will have delayed starts. Similar closures are expected in parts of Northern Ireland.
Communication Challenges
Experts have also warned that mobile phone coverage may be disrupted due to the severe weather conditions.
Residents are advised to stay tuned for updates and prepare for a challenging commute on Monday. The situation will be monitored closely as conditions evolve.
