Amber weather warnings have been issued due to severe winter conditions expected to worsen across the UK. The latest warning, announced on the morning of January 5, 2024, specifically targets parts of Scotland, including Aberdeen, Aviemore in the Cairngorms, and Ullapool in Ross-shire. The warning is active from 18:00 on Sunday until 10:00 on Monday, indicating expectations of “heavy snow” and significant travel disruptions.
Forecasters predict that the combination of snow and ice will create hazardous conditions, particularly in rural areas, where communities could become completely isolated. Additional yellow warnings for snow and ice remain in effect for Wales, Greater Manchester, and south-west England, while much of England’s east coast is under a yellow ice warning. In Scotland, a yellow warning for snow and ice covers areas north of Glasgow, set to expire at midnight on Monday.
The Met Office has advised residents in amber warning areas to prepare for travel chaos. Snow accumulations of 5 to 10 cm are expected at lower elevations, with higher terrain potentially seeing 20 to 30 cm. A spokesperson for the Met Office noted, “Heavy snow showers will become more frequent and may merge to give longer spells of snow at times.”
Reports from social media indicated that some areas in Aberdeenshire received up to 14 cm of snow by Sunday morning. In response to the adverse weather, Loganair has cancelled flights from Aberdeen and Inverness airports.
Both Shetland Isles Council and Aberdeenshire Council announced that schools would remain closed on Monday. In Aberdeen, schools will open later in the day, with a spokesperson indicating that operations would not commence until 11:00 on Monday, and breakfast clubs would be suspended. Aberdeen City Council further stated that updates would be provided by head teachers once local circumstances were assessed.
Travel advisories have been issued by police, following the amber warning for snow in northern and northeastern Scotland. Assistant Chief Constable Alan Waddell cautioned, “The forecasted heavy snow showers and ice means driving conditions are likely to be hazardous in some areas.” He urged individuals to reconsider their travel plans during the weather warnings and to drive cautiously if travel is necessary.
Scottish Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop has highlighted the challenging conditions, stating, “We’ve already seen challenging conditions and freezing temperatures, with more snow and ice on the way for the same areas.” She emphasized the importance of ensuring vehicles are winter-ready and having a winter kit in the car. Hyslop advised postponing travel until after the amber warning has expired whenever possible.
Matthew Lehnert, Chief Meteorologist at the Met Office, noted that as the first full working week of the year begins, the UK is facing various winter weather hazards. “In the north of Scotland, snow showers are expected to become more frequent on Sunday night,” he added. Some locations within the amber warning areas may see further accumulations of 20 to 30 cm by Monday morning.
In contrast, other regions in the UK are likely to experience milder conditions next week, with rain becoming more prevalent in the south. However, the potential for organized snow remains as the boundaries between mild and cold air masses shift, along with the possibility of strong winds later in the week.
As communities prepare for the impact of severe weather, local authorities and transport agencies continue to monitor conditions closely and provide guidance to ensure public safety.
