Police Scotland has issued renewed travel advice as further Amber weather warnings for heavy and persistent snow remain in place across large parts of the Highlands, Grampians, Highland Perthshire and north Angus.
The latest Amber warning, issued by the Met Office, is in force from 11am until 7pm on Tuesday the 6th of January, alongside a wider Yellow warning for snow and ice covering much of northern Scotland throughout the day.
Forecasters warn that a further 5 to 10cm of snow is expected widely on Tuesday afternoon, with up to 15cm possible in places, particularly on higher ground and roads above 200 metres.
This comes on top of significant snowfall already experienced across the Highlands and Grampians over the past week, meaning impacts are likely to persist for several days.
Authorities have warned of continued risks including travel disruption, stranded vehicles, rural communities becoming cut off, and interruptions to power supplies and essential services.
The Met Office has also highlighted an increased risk of injuries from slips and falls on icy surfaces, with untreated roads and footpaths likely to be hazardous or impassable in places.
Police Scotland said both trunk and local routes could be affected by heavy snow, ice and poor visibility, raising the likelihood of road and rail closures, power cuts, and risks to life and property.
Alan Waddell said emergency and resilience partners continue to work together to support communities.
“Local resilience partnerships are continuing to meet to co-ordinate and deliver the response to disruption experienced by communities in the north and north east of Scotland following heavy snowfall over the weekend.
“We have been working closely with local authorities, emergency services, transport partners, the NHS and other organisations to keep public services open where possible.”
He urged people to check on neighbours or relatives if it is safe to do so.
“Heavy snow and ice means driving conditions are likely to continue to be hazardous in some areas.
“Our advice is to plan ahead and carefully consider whether your journey is really necessary.
“If you do need to travel, fully clear snow and ice from your vehicle, drive to the conditions, allow extra time and be prepared for delays.”
The Met Office has warned the current Arctic airmass remains firmly in place, with the cold snap already delivering the lowest temperatures of the winter so far.
Temperatures dropped as low as minus 12.5°C overnight in parts of the UK, with further widespread sub zero conditions expected overnight into Wednesday, increasing the risk of ice.
Jason Kelly said further snowfall remains possible across Scotland.
“A further spell of snow is expected to move east across central and northern Scotland today, with Amber warnings in place until 7pm.”
“Overnight, cold air pushes back in with temperatures widely dipping below freezing again, increasing the risk of ice.”
Looking ahead, forecasters are also monitoring the approach of a deepening area of low pressure later in the week.
Meteo France has named the system Storm Goretti, which is expected to move across the south of the UK from Thursday into Friday, bringing the risk of strong winds, heavy rain and further snow on its northern edge.
Chris Bulmer said the system could bring a multi hazard event.
“Storm Goretti will clash with very cold air already in place, meaning Thursday night could bring snow, strong winds and heavy rain in different areas.
“Warnings are likely to be updated and potentially escalated, so it is vital people keep up to date with the latest forecasts.”
Cold conditions are expected to continue into the weekend, with wintry showers, ice and further disruption possible before milder air arrives later.
Public safety agencies continue to urge people to avoid unnecessary travel, prepare vehicles carefully, and look out for vulnerable neighbours during the prolonged cold spell.
