An amber warning for snow and ice has been issued as Storm Bert approaches Scotland. The Met Office predicts significant travel disruption, with conditions expected to worsen throughout the weekend.
Amber Warning Covers Large Areas
The Met Office’s amber warning will be active from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, November 23. It applies to regions north of Scotland’s Central Belt, including Stirling, Perthshire, Angus, Aberdeenshire, and parts of the southeast Highlands.
Beyond the amber zone, yellow warnings for snow, ice, and wind span across much of Scotland, with coastal areas particularly at risk. The yellow alerts will extend through Saturday night into early Sunday.
Transport Scotland has advised that these warnings are likely to cause delays across multiple modes of transportation. Deep snow on higher routes and icy conditions at lower levels could make roads treacherous, potentially isolating some rural areas.
Transport Chaos Expected
Officials anticipate severe impacts on Scotland’s transport network:
- Roads: Snow and ice could block routes, with stopping distances significantly increased.
- Trains and Buses: Long delays and cancellations are possible, particularly in affected amber warning areas.
- Utilities: Power outages and telephone network interruptions may occur in some regions.
Police Scotland has urged drivers to exercise caution and consider whether their journeys are absolutely necessary. Superintendent Vinnie Fisher emphasized the importance of safety, particularly in icy conditions, warning, “Stopping distances can be up to 10 times greater on snow and ice than on dry roads.”
Preparation Advice for Drivers
Key recommendations from officials include:
- Ensuring windscreen washer levels are topped up and windows are fully clear before driving.
- Keeping a safe distance from other vehicles to reduce the risk of collisions.
- Checking the latest updates from Traffic Scotland and Met Office channels.
Failure to properly clear windows before driving could result in fines.
Pedestrians and Cyclists Urged to Take Precautions
The storm isn’t just a concern for motorists. Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop highlighted risks for pedestrians and cyclists, saying, “Pavements are likely to be dangerous due to snow and ice. If you must go out, use suitable clothing and footwear to reduce risks.”
The warning comes with practical tips:
- Wear footwear with strong grip to prevent slips.
- Avoid unnecessary trips during the warning period.
Coordinated Response in Place
Transport Scotland and the Met Office are collaborating with local agencies to manage the storm’s impact. Resources are being pre-deployed to maintain key routes, with dedicated patrols on standby.
The Transport Scotland Resilience Room has been activated, and a Multi-Agency Response Team will oversee the amber warning period.
Summary of Key Measures:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Warnings Issued | Amber (snow/ice); Yellow (snow/ice/wind) |
| Key Areas Affected | Stirling, Perthshire, Angus, Aberdeenshire |
| Disruptions Expected | Roads, rail, utilities |
| Advice for Travel | Plan routes, check updates, avoid unnecessary trips |
As Storm Bert approaches, Scottish residents and travelers are urged to stay vigilant and informed. The evolving conditions underscore the importance of preparation and caution.
