UPDATE: Heavy snowfall is causing serious disruptions to rail services across Scotland, with operations likely affected until at least midday Monday, January 5, 2024, authorities confirm. Network Rail reports that snowploughs are working tirelessly to clear tracks as severe weather continues to impact travel plans.
Passengers traveling on routes such as Aberdeen – Dundee, Aberdeen – Inverness, and Inverness – Wick/Thurso are strongly advised to check their journeys before setting out. The Met Office has issued updated amber weather warnings for snow in northern and north-east Scotland, effective from tonight and lasting until Monday morning. Additionally, yellow warnings for snow and ice have been placed across other regions.
As snow accumulates, concerns grow for rural communities, with officials warning that some areas could become cut off due to the weather. Highland Council has issued warnings advising residents to only travel if absolutely necessary.
Flight operations are also feeling the brunt of the weather, as significant cancellations have hit Inverness Airport, affecting flights to Kirkwall, Stornoway, Belfast, and Amsterdam. Loganair is offering passengers the option to adjust their flights without charge due to these disruptions.
Snow depth exceeding 30cm poses a serious risk to railway safety, as trains cannot operate safely without snowploughs. Low temperatures further complicate matters, creating conditions where snow and ice can block critical equipment, such as track points.
Network Rail’s teams are on standby, closely monitoring the situation while working around the clock to keep affected services running. Ross Moran, route director at Network Rail Scotland, stated, “Our teams are working hard to keep the railway running and passengers informed, with the aim of minimizing disruption as far as possible. We appreciate the patience of passengers while we manage the impact of this heavy snowfall.”
In a statement, ScotRail Service Delivery Director Mark Ilderton emphasized, “Safety is our number one priority. We estimate trains between Aberdeen and Dundee, Aberdeen and Inverness, and Inverness and Wick will be unable to run until at least midday tomorrow.” Passengers are encouraged to keep informed through the ScotRail website or social media for real-time updates.
This developing situation underscores the urgency of the weather’s impact on travel across Scotland. Travelers are reminded to check nationalrail.co.uk or directly with their train operators for the latest information. As conditions evolve, the safety of passengers remains the top priority for all involved.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story unfolds.
