Heavy snowfall has brought significant disruption across northern and central Scotland, with rail cancellations, road closures, and hazardous driving conditions reported across multiple regions.
Amber snow warnings remain in place until midday on Saturday for the north east, Highland, Perth and Kinross, Angus, and Shetland.
Forecasters warned that up to 20cm of snow could settle at low levels, with blizzard conditions likely in exposed areas.
Higher ground could see accumulations of up to 40cm, increasing the risk of communities becoming isolated.
ScotRail confirmed it was unable to operate trains to or from Thurso due to heavy snow accumulation around Georgemas and Thurso.
Replacement bus services could not be arranged because road conditions were deemed unsafe.
Passengers holding tickets for Friday were advised they could travel instead on Saturday or Sunday.
Ferry services were also disrupted as strong winds combined with snowfall to create dangerous maritime conditions.
Several major and minor roads were impacted, with snow gates closed across northern Scotland.
Closures were reported on the A93 Braemar–Glenshee, A939 Tomintoul–Cockbridge, the B974 Cairn O’Mount–Fettercairn, and the Bealach na Ba route.
Although restrictions on parts of the A9, A1 and A82 were later lifted, conditions remained challenging.
A section of the A90 near Brechin was closed in both directions following a collision linked to icy conditions.
Highland Council reported campervans, cars, and even a snowplough becoming stuck on icy tourist routes.
Aberdeen Airport remained operational but urged passengers to check flight statuses before travelling.
Forecasters warned that further delays to air and rail services were possible as snow showers continued.
The Met Office cautioned that vehicle strandings were likely during the amber warning period.
Pedestrians were also advised to take care as untreated pavements became icy.
Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop said conditions would remain challenging and urged people to follow police guidance.
Chief Superintendent Scott McCarren of Police Scotland warned motorists to consider whether journeys were truly necessary.
He 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.”
Met Office forecaster Neil Armstrong said Arctic air was driving temperatures well below seasonal averages.
He warned the cold spell “could last well into next week” and that “wintry hazards will continue with more weather warnings likely”.
Yellow snow and ice warnings remain in place for much of northern Scotland until Monday.
Across the UK, cold health alerts have also been issued as freezing conditions spread south.
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