Amber alert issued as Storm Bert threatens major disruption to Scotland’s roads

The amber warning for snow and ice covers an area north of the Central Belt, including parts of Stirling, Perthshire, Angus, Aberdeenshire and the southeast Highlands, and runs from 7am on Saturday 23 November until 5pm that evening.

Wider yellow warnings for snow and ice cover large parts of the country throughout Saturday into Sunday morning, and a yellow wind warning is also in place for much of coastal Scotland throughout Saturday.

Potential impacts of the amber warning include long delays and cancellations on bus and rail travel. Roads may be affected by deep snow, particularly over higher routes, and some rural communities might be cut off.

Interruptions to power supplies and telephone networks could also occur. Police Scotland’s travel advice is to expect a “high risk” of disruption in the amber warning area.

Transport Scotland said: “Our operating companies are closely monitoring the trunk road network, allowing them to pre-deploy resources and carry out dedicated patrols and treatments, as well as providing assistance to motorists, where necessary.

”The Transport Scotland Resilience Room is currently active and the Multi-Agency Response Team will also be activated for the amber weather warning.

Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop said: “The Met Office is warning us that Storm Bert will bring a period of challenging weather this weekend, with an amber warning for snow and ice issued for parts of Central Scotland on Saturday, and yellow warnings for snow, ice and wind in place for large parts of the country.

“The conditions will likely cause difficult driving conditions and disruption to the wider transport network, so it’s important that anyone that has to travel during the warning period plans their journey ahead of time.

“You should plan your route in advance, drive to the conditions and follow Police Scotland travel advice. There may be disruption on other modes of transport, so you should check with your operators before setting off if you’re planning to travel by rail, ferry or air.

“Motorists can check with Traffic Scotland to make sure that their route is available. They give people access to the latest travel information via their website and Twitter/X account.

“Pedestrians should also be aware that pavements are likely to be affected by snow and ice, so make sure you use the appropriate clothing and footwear if you have to go out.”

Superintendent Vinnie Fisher, deputy head of Road Policing, said: “All road users should consider if they really need to travel in adverse weather. When driving on ice and snow, keep well back from the road user in front. Stopping distances can be up to 10 times greater than on dry roads.

“Check your windscreen washer levels and ensure your windows are completely clear before driving. Failure to do so can result in a fine.

“Listen to media broadcasts for updates, follow Traffic Scotland and the Met Office on social media and share information with others.”

RAC Breakdown spokesperson Alice Simpson said: “The first taste of winter means drivers are suddenly contending with the some of the worst road conditions we’ve seen all year.

“With freezing temperatures already causing disruption in the east and north of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, and snow showers now affecting regions further south, we advise motorists to plan well as ice forms on untreated surfaces.

“Drivers should ensure their tyres have plenty of tread and are inflated to the correct pressure to give them the best possible grip on the road. It’s best to stick to major roads, rather than rural areas where surfaces may not be gritted, reduce speeds and leave plenty of space behind the vehicle in front to ensure you have more time to stop.

“Everyone should travel prepared in case they find themselves broken down at the side of the road: a blanket, warm waterproof coat and gloves, sturdy footwear and a charging cable and mobile power bank are all essentials.”