URGENT UPDATE: Hundreds of schools across northern Scotland remain closed for a fourth consecutive day as severe snow and ice warnings continue to impact the region. A fresh yellow weather warning from the Met Office is in effect from 10 PM on January 11, 2023, until noon on January 12, predicting an additional 1-2 cm of snow in lower areas and up to 5 cm above 200 meters.
The ongoing winter conditions have significantly disrupted travel and education, delaying the return to school for thousands of pupils who were scheduled to resume classes following the winter break. In Aberdeenshire, approximately 150 schools are closed, with bus services also suspended due to treacherous conditions. Schools in the Highlands, Moray, and Orkney are similarly affected, marking a challenging time for students and families.
Residents of Insch, Aberdeenshire, report being cut off after nearly a foot of snow fell, with local Doug Griffin stating, “It makes it really difficult to do anything.” He described this winter as “one of the worst in 25 years,” drawing comparisons to the extreme conditions of 2010.
The severe weather has caused major disruptions to road, air, and rail travel throughout the country. Some train lines have been shut down due to snow drifts up to 1.2 meters deep. The A9 was closed earlier this week to recover a Royal Mail lorry that crashed off the road. Although most rail services resumed on January 11, challenges remain, particularly on the Inverness to Wick/Thurso line.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely. Police Scotland has urged the public to heed travel advisories. Assistant Chief Constable Alan Waddell emphasized the collaborative efforts among local resilience partnerships, emergency services, and health organizations to support affected communities. “Some services may be impacted by adverse weather,” he cautioned, encouraging residents to check on neighbors and relatives safely.
As the situation develops, residents are advised to stay updated through official channels. The impact of this severe winter weather is expected to linger, with additional snowfall likely. The community is urged to remain vigilant and prioritize safety as conditions evolve.
