Janice R. Andrews
Scotland is preparing for its coldest night in over a decade, with temperatures predicted to dip below last year’s low of -14°C in Dalwhinnie. The Met Office has issued yellow warnings for snow and ice across northern parts of the country, raising safety concerns.
To break the January record, temperatures would need to fall below -16°C. The lowest January temperature ever recorded in Scotland was -22.3°C in Altnaharra in 2010. Forecasters expect the coldest conditions in rural areas, with the mercury already dropping to -12°C on Wednesday evening in Tulloch Bridge.
Snow and Ice Warnings in Effect
Weather alerts are in place until 10:00 Friday, with snowfall predictions of up to 10cm in higher areas and 1-3cm in lower regions. A separate ice warning covers East Lothian and the Borders. In the central belt, temperatures are expected to remain below freezing, reaching a low of -3°C.
Schools and Transport Face Major Disruptions
The severe weather has caused widespread disruption to schools and transport. Hundreds of schools across Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, Moray, the Highlands, Orkney, Shetland, and the Outer Hebrides remained closed on Thursday, impacting thousands of students.
In the Highlands, school bus operator D&E suspended services due to safety concerns. More than 100 primary schools, 24 secondary schools, and 88 nurseries were closed in the region. In Orkney, bus services were canceled, and exams at Kirkwall Grammar School were postponed. Aberdeenshire faced similar challenges, with 41 schools closed and others delaying their opening. Transport services in Shetland and the Western Isles also faced cancellations and delays.
Cold Snap Grips the UK
Elsewhere in the UK, weather and flood warnings have been issued in parts of England and Wales. An amber cold health alert, the second-highest level, is in effect across England until midday Sunday, reflecting the widespread impact of the freezing conditions.
Scotland is urged to remain vigilant as it faces its coldest night in 15 years. The Met Office continues to monitor the situation and provide updates to ensure public safety.
