Snowfall disruption 'at a minimum'

Dec 3 2012

Disruption on the main transport network has been kept to a minimum as the first widespread snowfall of winter crossed the country.

Around 3cm of snow fell across many parts overnight but rain and sleet is expected to wash most of it away, with commuters being urged to take extra care as plunging temperatures cause icy conditions.

The main transport routes have remained largely clear, although Grampian Police have responded to 77 road accidents, including two fatal crashes, since snow started to fall in the north-east on Friday. The number is double the average reported at this time of year, the force said.

"After the recent drop in temperatures, snow and ice have been affecting our roads and there has been a noticeable increase in the number of road traffic collisions reported to the police," Chief Inspector Ian Wallace said.

"Driving during the winter months requires a different approach to be employed, namely using dipped headlights, reducing your speed, increasing your stopping distance, using smooth steering and avoiding harsh acceleration and braking. Some simple changes to the way you drive can make a big difference and reduce the chances of you being involved in a collision."

Chris Burton, a forecaster with MeteoGroup, the weather division of the Press Association, said temperatures will fall sharply this week.

"Showers of rain and sleet will continue this evening, falling as snow on the highest points," he said. "The north and north-east will still experience some snow into tomorrow but there will be clearer spells for much of the country.

"Temperatures are remaining low and will fall further as the week goes on, with minus 6C expected in many parts from Thursday. It might not be as low in inner city areas, so around minus 3C in Glasgow and Edinburgh, but remote areas will struggle to get above freezing temperatures even during the day."

A Scottish Government spokesman said: "The Scottish Government's Resilience Room and Transport Scotland's multi-agency response team both stand ready to co-ordinate activity across the network and address any wider severe weather impacts should conditions later this week require a national response. We are continuing to closely monitor the situation, particularly in relation to key areas of transport, utilities and flooding."

Snowfall and low temperatures can cause problems for commuters and other travellers but it is good news for Scotland's ski centres. Cairngorm and the Lecht, near Aberdeen, opened for business at the weekend, reporting good snow cover.