Parts of Scotland are bracing for a second day of weather-related disruption as Storm Bert transitions from heavy snow to localized flooding and strong winds.
Snow Transitions to Flood Risk
After blanketing much of central Scotland with snow on Saturday, Storm Bert is now bringing heavy rain, increasing concerns over localized flooding. Rising temperatures and rapid snowmelt have created conditions ripe for surface water accumulation, prompting flood alerts across several regions, including Dumfries and Galloway, Tayside, Dundee, and Aberdeenshire.
Flood warnings urging immediate action are in effect for specific areas, such as Strath Oykel and Churchill Barriers in Orkney.
Travel Chaos Continues
Road Disruptions
The snowstorm caused severe travel issues on Saturday, with major roads like the M8, M74, and A68 facing closures due to accidents. The conditions also led to the temporary closure of the Queensferry Crossing, diverting traffic to the Forth Road Bridge for the first time since 2021. The bridge reopened early Sunday morning.
Lothian Buses suspended all 700 of their vehicles during the worst conditions on Saturday, though services resumed later that evening. However, scattered incidents, including a bus sliding off the road in Buchlyvie, highlighted the ongoing hazards.
Power Outages and Public Impact
While over 3,000 homes in England and Wales lost power, Scotland has seen fewer disruptions, with only minor outages reported by Scottish Power and SSE.
The Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings for rain and wind, forecasting gusts up to 65 mph in parts of the Highlands and Argyll and Bute.
Sports and Community Disruptions
The severe weather also impacted Scotland’s sporting calendar, with 11 SPFL matches postponed and delays to others. Cove Rangers’ match against Stenhousemuir was canceled after the visiting team’s bus got stuck in snow near Perth.
What’s Next?
Forecasters predict that Storm Bert will linger until Monday, with ongoing risks from flooding and strong winds. Authorities are urging caution for those traveling, advising drivers to adjust their speed and remain vigilant for waterlogged roads and icy patches.
