Severe winter weather hit Scotland this week, prompting the closure of more than 100 schools across Aberdeenshire, the Highlands, and Moray as snow and ice warnings were issued. The Met Office has categorized the weather as severe, issuing multiple alerts for snow and ice across most of the country. With warnings effective from Monday afternoon through to Tuesday noon, regions including central Scotland, Strathclyde, and Dumfries and Galloway could experience significant disruptions.
On Monday, as students were supposed to return to school after the festive break, concerns over transportation for both pupils and staff led to the shutdown of many schools across Aberdeenshire. Specifically, 81 primary schools and eight secondary schools were closed, affecting thousands of children eager to return to classes. Similar closures occurred in Moray, where 11 primaries and two secondaries were not operational, and the Highlands, which saw ten primary schools close along with Portree High School.
The snow and ice prompted immediate action from Transport Scotland, which advised travelers to prepare their vehicles for winter conditions and to check travel conditions before setting off. "Please plan ahead, check before you travel, drive to the conditions, and allow extra time for your journeys," urged a spokesperson for Transport Scotland, adding, "Our Road Operating Companies are set to activate specific snow plans, ensuring extra staff and equipment are on-site to manage the conditions effectively.”
Snow showers were forecast to intensify across coastal areas, with central Scotland expected to bear the brunt of the wintry weather, leading to longer travel times and dangerous conditions on untreated roads, pavements, and vehicles. Met Office chief forecaster Frank Saunders described the situation, stating, "Cold conditions will continue, with snow showers expected to increase, particularly for the southeast. We anticipate disruptions to travel across the affected areas."
The yellow weather warnings prompted local councils to act swiftly. An Aberdeenshire Council spokesperson explained, "The closures are never taken lightly and involve various factors, including the ability of staff to travel safely. Where practical, we have arranged delayed openings to facilitate safe travel for both staff and students. Schools strive to provide learning through online platforms if they cannot open.”
While some schools remained closed, others operated on delayed schedules. Notably, the Gordon Schools remained shut for two consecutive days, but other institutions like Alford Academy managed to open as scheduled. The closures continued as icy conditions persisted, making travel treacherous. Many roads were affected, with snow gates closing on key routes such as the B974 Banchory to Fettercairn road.
The impact of winter weather was felt far beyond school closures. On January 7, officials reported disruptions to travel, as multiple transport services scrambled to adjust to the conditions. ScotRail advised passengers to check their journeys before traveling, acknowledging the potential for delays and alterations due to extensive snow and ice. They stated, "We’re expecting snow to move across central Scotland, initially light but becoming more substantial. Please check your entire travel route using our app or website." Network Rail Scotland echoed similar sentiments, indicating preparations were underway with locomotives ready for snow clearing.
Despite the chaos across transportation networks, Transport Scotland noted the system as having coped relatively well under the conditions. "We’ve dealt with challenges faced along the way, and the Highlands area is usually more susceptible to adverse winter weather. But we’re ensuring all precautions are taken to keep our transport networks safe and functional,” said Douglas Cairns from Transport Scotland.
With extended forecasts predicting continued cold weather, questions remain about the resilience of local transportation and school systems to meet the challenges posed by the winter conditions. Further updates from local authorities are expected as the week progresses, particularly concerning the operational status of schools and additional weather alerts from the Met Office.
This winter has brought some of the coldest temperatures seen this season, with the Met Office recording minus 13.3 degrees Celsius at Loch Glascarnoch as the cold snap continues. The combination of recent heavy snows, and the threat of adverse conditions poses significant challenges, leaving many residents weighing their travel options carefully.