16 Dec 2022 | 09:29 AM UTC
UK: Adverse winter weather forecast across much fo Scotland through at least Dec. 19
Snowy and icy conditions forecast across much of Scotland through at least Dec. 19. Hazardous travel conditions are likely.
Event
Adverse winter weather conditions are forecast across much of Scotland through at least Dec. 19. As of early Dec. 16, the UK Met Office has issued an amber warning for snow over parts of Central, Tayside, and Fife, Southwest Scotland, Lothian Borders, and Strathclyde through the morning hours of Dec. 16. Snowfall accumulations of 5-10 cm (2-4 inches) are likely in lower elevations in the affected area and accumulations of up to 20 cm (8 inches) are possible in areas over 200 meters (656 feet). Snow is likely to transition to sleet and rain by the afternoon. Yellow snow and ice warnings are also in place for the Orkney and Shetland islands early Dec. 16 and across much of central and southern Scotland through late Dec. 16. There are no warnings for Dec. 17; however, further yellow snow and ice warnings have been issued across most of Scotland Dec. 18. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the days.
Hazardous travel conditions are likely due to icy roads and reduced visibility caused by blowing snow. Authorites are advising people to travel with caution. Traffic Scotland have reported several incidents on major routes in central Scotland as of early Dec. 16 due to incidents associated with the adverse weather conditions, including on the M8 and M80 motorways. ScotRail services are already limited due to strike action; however, the remaining services will likely be impacted by the severe weather. Authorities in the Shetland Islands declared a major incident after around 1,700 people were left without power late Dec. 15, and more than 100 schools have been closed across Aberdeenshire, Moray, and the Highlands.
Transport
The winter weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions in the region over the coming days. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Difficult and potentially dangerous driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roadways in the affected states as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities could close stretches of highway if driving conditions become too hazardous. Gusty winds may threaten to topple high-profile vehicles throughout the affected area. Flight delays and cancellations are likely due to ground stops and deicing operations at regional airports.
Advice
Monitor local media for updated weather information. Verify road conditions before driving in areas where heavy snowfall is forecast. Allow extra time to reach destinations in these areas and carry an emergency kit and warm clothes if driving is necessary, especially on secondary or rural routes that could become impassable. Plan accordingly for delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
