Heavy snow in northern Scotland brings travel disruption on New Year’s Day

Snowy conditions on New Year’s Day have caused disruption for drivers in the north and north east of Scotland, ahead of an amber weather warning which begins on January 2.

Wintry weather is already affecting a number of roads in Scotland, with snow gates in place and reports of vehicles becoming stuck.

Meanwhile, the A952 at Toll of Birness in Aberdeenshire was closed following a two-car crash on Thursday afternoon, with three women injured.

Police warned drivers to avoid the area.

Snow gates were closed on the A93 at Braemar and on the B974 at Bridge of Dye due to the adverse weather conditions on Thursday afternoon.

Gritters and ploughs were out on the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route following the heavy snowfall.

The Met Office issued a yellow weather warning for snow and ice covering much of Scotland north of Dundee on Thursday, saying frequent and heavy snow showers are expected.

The Met Office predicts 2 to 5cm could be lying by Thursday evening, with 10cm accumulating by Friday morning, while up to 20cm could build up above 200 metres.

A more serious amber weather warning is in place for the north east and parts of northern Scotland from midday on Friday through to midday on Saturday.

The Met Office says these areas could see temporary blizzard conditions and hazards caused by drifting snow.

Some areas may become cut off and vehicles may be stranded.

On Friday, there could be snow accumulations of up to 20cm on low ground and up to 40cm on higher ground.

Those in the affected areas have been warned the wintry conditions are likely to continue into the weekend.

Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop said: “Some very challenging weather and freezing temperatures are being forecast for the next few days and into the weekend.

“We would urge people to listen to Police Scotland travel advice and check with their operator.

“The Traffic Scotland website gives people access to the latest information on the trunk road network and Traffic Scotland social media channels are updated regularly so you can check if your route is available.

“There may also be disruption on other modes of transport, so please check with your operator before setting off.”

Chief Superintendent Scott McCarren, Police Scotland’s head of road policing, said: “Our advice is to plan ahead and consider if your journey is really necessary during the bad weather or if it can be delayed until conditions improve.

“If you need to travel, please drive to the conditions, be prepared for delays and allow extra time for your journey.

“Please don’t drive through road closures, the decision to close roads is not taken lightly and is done for public safety.”

Police said three women, aged 81, 51 and 20, were taken to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary with serious injuries following the crash on the A952.

The crash involved a blue Volkswagen T-Roc and a white Suzuki Ignis, with police appealing for any witnesses to come forward.