Recovery efforts are continuing across northern Scotland as services return to normal following several days of severe snow and ice.
The Scottish Government’s Resilience Room met again earlier today to coordinate the ongoing response, bringing together ministers, emergency services, local authorities, transport operators, resilience partnerships and utilities.
Trunk roads, ferry services and airports are now operating normally, while impacts remain on some local roads and parts of the rail network where clearance and repairs are still underway.
A total of 278 schools were closed earlier today, around 11% of the school estate, with remote learning in place where possible as work continues to reopen buildings safely.
While the most severe weather has passed and earlier yellow warnings have now expired, cold conditions are expected to persist into the weekend, with ministers continuing to urge caution and forward planning.
Justice Secretary Angela Constance said:
“Following five days of amber warnings and hugely challenging snow and ice conditions across northern Scotland, progress to fully recover continues.
“Care for those people who need it remains a priority.
“While trunk roads, ferries and air services are operating as normal today, impacts remain on local roads and parts of the rail network.
“Significant efforts continue to clear local roads and rail, with progress being made by the gritters, snow ploughs and blowers out around the clock.
“There are fewer schools closed today but challenges remain in reopening in some areas.
“Partners are continuing to work together to provide mutual aid as needed.
“As ever, I want to thank everyone involved in the ongoing work to support people and the clear up across the public, private and voluntary sector.
“I am also grateful for the public’s understanding that full recovery takes some time.
“If anyone affected is isolated or needs help or assistance, they should not hesitate to seek help from their local authority, health board or other public service.
“However, there are yellow weather warnings in place overnight for most of Scotland, and with Storm Goretti set to affect other parts of the UK and a cold but still unpredictable weather picture for Scotland over the weekend, it is clear that impacts will continue to be felt in the coming days.
“I would encourage everyone to plan ahead and check the range of weather and travel advice available.
“Ministers are closely monitoring the situation and will continue to consider any further practical assistance that is required.”
