Scotland is braced for a winter blast as forecasters warn snow and ice is set to hit today.
A yellow warning for snow and ice has been issued by the Met Office. The weather alert comes into force from 4pm until 11am tomorrow and will see wintry conditions hit the north east of the country, with Aberdeenshire and Moray set for snowfall. The Highlands, Orkney and Shetland have also been slapped with the Met Office alert.
Forecasters predict that showers will start to turn increasingly wintry throughout Sunday, with hail sleet and some snow predicted. They say that little snow could likely settle at low levels by day, but through the evening 1 to 3cm could fall. While 5 to 10cm is possible on high ground above 300 metres by Monday morning.
Temperatures are set to plummet overnight to below freezing – with residents being warned on ice forming on untreated surfaces.
Advice has been given for commuters to plan their journey ahead. Drivers have been warned to pack essentials with them including warm clothing, food, water, a blanket, a torch, ice scraper/ de icer, in case there are any delays or road closures.
Walkers have been advised to use pavements and main roads, whilst cyclists have also been urged to stick to main roads.
Chief Meteorologist at the Met Office, Andy Page, said “We have issued yellow warnings for snow and ice as cold weather moves in from the north.
“This brings snow showers and some ice to parts of Scotland on Sunday night, and then the potential for a spell of snow to lead to disruption to some transport routes across a central swathe of the UK on Tuesday morning. Gusty winds in the east also remain a potential hazard. Updates to the warnings for wintry hazards are likely so it is important to stay up to date with the latest forecast”
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