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Scotland Snow Chaos: Schools Face Closure
3 Jan
Summary
- Heavy snow expected to disrupt school returns for thousands.
- Up to 15 inches of snow recorded in some Scottish areas.
- Travel warnings and ice alerts remain in place for northern Scotland.
Heavy snow is threatening the return-to-school plans for many students in Scotland's highlands and islands. With up to 15 inches of snow already recorded in some locations, like Tomintoul, and further snowfall forecast, travel conditions are expected to be dangerous for the planned Monday return to classes in Orkney, Shetland, and Aberdeenshire. Schools in the Highland region are not scheduled to reopen until Wednesday.
Snow and ice warnings are active for northern Scotland above the central belt, including the Western Isles, Orkney, and Shetland, until noon on Monday. Forecasters predict an additional 2 to 6 inches of snow in lower areas and up to 12 inches above 200 meters in the northwest Highlands and Grampians. Drifting snow and temporary blizzard conditions are also likely, with lightning a potential hazard.
This severe weather has already caused travel disruptions, including the isolation of a doctor in Huntly, Aberdeenshire, who was later provided with shelter. ScotRail has reported cancellations, and overrunning engineering work has blocked Avanti West Coast lines to Glasgow and Edinburgh. The Met Office warns of potential power cuts and rural communities being cut off due to the ongoing sub-zero temperatures and heavy snow showers.
