URGENT UPDATE: Heavy snow is currently wreaking havoc across the Highlands as an icy Arctic blast, originating from Siberia, swept through the region overnight. Temperatures have plummeted, leading to yellow warnings for snow and ice that are now in effect across the entire Highlands, Moray, and Aberdeenshire.
Motorists are facing treacherous driving conditions, with numerous reports of vehicles stranded on the A939 and several accidents occurring in the Cairngorms and Grampians. In a significant incident, a lorry jack-knifed on the A9 near Dunbeath early this morning, blocking traffic in both directions. The snow has made other sections of the A9 hazardous as well, particularly the Tain bypass, where visibility is severely reduced during the morning rush hour.
Public transport is also severely affected, with multiple train cancellations reported. The 11:43 AM train from Inverness to Dingwall and the 12:45 PM return trip have been cancelled due to a fault with the signalling system, which is believed to have been obstructed by the heavy snowfall. Early services from Wick to Inverness at 6:18 AM and 8:02 AM also missed their stop at Thurso.
The educational sector is not spared, as 20 schools and 10 nurseries have closed or partially closed due to the weather. More than 1,400 children are impacted, including students at Gairloch High School, Bonar Bridge Primary, and Lochcarron Primary. Several other schools, such as Portree High School and Newtonmore Primary, plan to open an hour later than usual due to the conditions.
Authorities advise residents to stay indoors where possible and travel only if absolutely necessary. For a complete list of school closures, visit https://www.highland.gov.uk/schoolclosures.
This situation is developing rapidly, and further updates will follow as officials continue to assess the impact of the weather. Stay tuned for more urgent news as it unfolds.
