Fresh travel advice has been issued as further amber and yellow weather warnings for snow, ice, wind and rain remain in place across large parts of Scotland.
An amber warning for heavy and persistent snow is in force from 3am to 2pm on Sunday 11th of January across parts of Angus, Perth and Kinross, Stirling, Aberdeenshire, Moray and Highland, according to the Met Office.
Within the amber warning area, a further 2 to 5cm of snow is expected at low levels, with 10 to 15cm more widely and up to 30cm possible on higher ground above 300 metres.
The warning brings an increased risk of travel delays, stranded vehicles, rail and air disruption, rural communities becoming cut off, and possible power cuts and loss of mobile phone coverage.
A wider yellow warning for snow and ice also remains in place for much of mainland Scotland from 2am to 3pm on Sunday, with a risk of freezing rain that can turn wet roads into sheets of black ice within moments.
After a week of significant snowfall across the Highlands and Grampian, the effects of the weather are expected to continue to be felt for several more days.
Further disruption to travel, interruptions to power supplies, communities becoming isolated and injuries caused by slips and falls on icy surfaces all remain likely.
Assistant Chief Constable Alan Waddell said:
“We have been working closely with resilience partners across local authorities, other emergency service partners, transport partners, NHS and health and social care partnerships, and other local organisations to support communities affected by adverse weather and keep public services open where possible.
“Some services may be impacted by adverse weather, and I would encourage the public to check on neighbours or relatives, if they are able to do so safely.
“Heavy snow and ice means driving conditions are likely to continue to be hazardous in some areas.
“Our advice is to plan ahead and consider if your journey is really necessary.
“If you need to travel, please fully clear your vehicle windows of snow and ice before you drive, drive to the conditions, be prepared for delays and allow extra time for your journey.”
Wider yellow warnings for wind and rain are also in place, and when combined with snow melt, there is a growing risk of flooding in some areas.
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency continues to monitor flood risk, and people in potentially affected areas are being encouraged to stay alert to changing conditions.
Authorities are urging people to keep checking the latest forecasts and advice, avoid unnecessary travel where possible, and look out for those who may need extra support during the ongoing severe weather.
