As 2024 draws to a close, Scotland is bracing for a dramatic shift in weather, with strong winds, heavy rain, and snow forecast to take over the country. The Met Office has issued numerous weather warnings, including severe flood alerts and amber warnings for snow and rain, signaling turbulent conditions for the final days of the year.
Stormy Start to the Week
December 30: Heavy Rain and Snow
The weather took a stormy turn on December 30, with heavy rain sweeping across Scotland, particularly in the Highlands. Snow is expected to accumulate in higher areas, with up to 20cm of snow in some parts. As milder air moves in, this will lead to a thaw, exacerbating flooding, particularly in areas like the A82 through the Great Glen.
The Highland rail network has already faced disruptions due to flooding, and with more heavy rain in the forecast, conditions are set to worsen. An amber warning for rainfall has been issued, with further flooding expected.
Hogmanay: A Difficult Night for the North
Changing Weather on New Year’s Eve
The celebrations on Hogmanay could be overshadowed by challenging weather, especially in the Northern Isles. Heavy rain will turn into snow as colder air moves south, and blizzard-like conditions may develop, making driving difficult in Shetland and Orkney.
Strong winds will affect all parts of the country, particularly the north and west, while the Highlands will see continued heavy rain. As the evening progresses, rain will turn to snow in the north, making travel treacherous along roads like the A82 and A9.
Midnight: A Brief Respite
At the stroke of midnight, central and southern Scotland will see drier conditions, although winds will remain strong. However, heavy rain in the northern regions will turn to snow, particularly in the Highlands and eastern Grampians. Roads in these areas may become snow-covered, affecting travel throughout the night.
New Year’s Day: Colder and Wintry Conditions
Snow in the South and North
On New Year’s Day, snow showers are expected to spread from the north into central and southern Scotland. Cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh may experience a light dusting of snow, while higher areas see more significant accumulation. In the north, temperatures will continue to drop, with frequent snow showers expected.
Early January: A Cold Start to 2025
The first days of 2025 will bring some of the coldest temperatures of the year, especially in the Highlands, where temperatures could dip to -15°C on clear nights. Snow showers will continue in the north, but sunnier spells are expected further south.
Category: Weather
Meta Description: Scotland braces for tumultuous weather to end 2024 with heavy rain, snow, and strong winds expected, followed by a colder, wintry start to 2025.
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Image: A dramatic weather scene of heavy rain and snow affecting Scotland’s landscape, with winds gusting in the Highlands.
