Brits have been cautioned about avalanches as the nation grapples with a prolonged Arctic chill accompanied by substantial snowfall.
Avalanche warnings have been issued for six regions in Scotland, with Aberdeenshire declaring a major incident recently, while the Met Office maintains alerts for snow and ice across most parts of the UK. Aberdeenshire Council has alerted of potential isolation in rural areas and the likelihood of power outages. The country has experienced disruptions in road, air, and rail travel, including closures on some train routes due to snow accumulation up to 1.2 meters deep in certain areas.
The Met Office has implemented a yellow weather warning for ice and snow in the northern half of the country, effective from midnight until 11.59pm on Wednesday. Forecasters anticipate an additional 5-10cm of snow above 100m and up to 20cm in regions above 200m. Southern and western areas are also under a yellow ice warning from midnight to 10 am.
The Scottish Avalanche Information Service has identified six high-risk areas: Creag Meagaidh, Lochaher, North Cairngorms, South Cairngorms, Torridon, and Glencoe, with considerable risk for the first five and moderate risk for Glencoe. The service cautions about the possibility of natural avalanches, including large and very large ones, especially triggered by a single person on steep slopes.
Aberdeenshire Council emphasized the prolonged severe impacts of heavy snowfall and icy rain, leading to the declaration of a major incident. Authorities urge residents to assist each other during this challenging period, especially those in remote or vulnerable communities.
The snow and ice warning by the Met Office spans from Dundee in the east to the Isle of Skye in the west, with ongoing snowfall expected to transition to rain or sleet in low-lying areas, potentially causing widespread icy conditions.
Police Scotland anticipates continued snow impact in the north and north-east regions, advising the public to adhere to travel guidance. Assistant chief constable Alan Waddell highlighted collaborative efforts among various agencies to manage the disruptions caused by heavy snowfall, urging individuals to check on neighbors and relatives for support during adverse weather conditions.
