Scotland is bracing for a weekend of severe weather, as heavy rain and snow are expected to disrupt travel and pose risks to safety. The Met Office has issued its fifth yellow warning of the week, extending across large parts of the country, with the threat of flooding, icy conditions, and potential hazards on the roads.
Continued Weather Warnings Amid Disruption
The new alert, which covers 27 council areas across Scotland, warns of significant travel disruption and a “danger to life” due to heavy snow followed by a rapid thaw and heavy rain. The weather system is expected to intensify on Saturday, with snow impacting lower levels and a rapid change in conditions. The rain will follow quickly, creating the potential for fast-flowing floodwater in some areas.
Several weather warnings have already been issued this week due to a combination of snow, ice, and freezing temperatures, with some areas seeing temperatures plunge to -11.2°C. The latest warning stretches into Sunday morning, with the potential for road closures, delayed travel, and hazardous conditions.
Impact on Transport and Public Safety
Scotland has already seen significant travel disruption due to the weather. On Wednesday, a bus overturned in Aberdeenshire, and a man died in a multi-vehicle crash on the A9. Train services have also been affected, with delays and cancellations across the region. Additionally, a car fire and a jack-knifed lorry on the A96 and A9, respectively, have forced road closures.
The Met Office has cautioned residents and travelers to be prepared for a weekend of difficult conditions. “There is a small chance of fast-flowing or deep floodwater causing danger to life,” said a spokesperson. The risk of slips, falls, and further vehicle accidents remains high due to icy roads and unsettled weather patterns.
The Weekend Forecast
Forecasts suggest that the cold weather will persist through Thursday night, with temperatures dropping to -8°C in parts of central and southern Scotland. Wintry showers are expected to continue across northern areas, but some areas may experience a mix of rain and sleet as the weather warms slightly.
However, the real change will come on Saturday, as milder air moves north, bringing gales along coastal regions and across the islands. Rain will replace snow over higher ground, though some snow may still settle on the highest peaks. This change in temperature will shift conditions drastically, with temperatures potentially reaching the low teens in some areas by Saturday evening.
Impact on Daily Life
Residents of Scotland have been urged to take extra caution as they go about their weekend plans, particularly with the potential for flooding and rapid changes in weather conditions. Local authorities are urging people to stay updated on weather reports and to plan their travel in advance, as roads may be closed or impassable.
Although the weather will improve briefly with milder conditions this weekend, early next week is expected to see colder air return, though not as harshly as in the past few days.
