Aberdeen faces icy conditions as winter snow arrives

Residents urged to exercise caution as temperatures drop and roads become icy

Winter’s Arrival in Aberdeen

The first snowfall of the winter season has blanketed Aberdeen, prompting the city council to issue warnings about icy conditions. Residents woke up to a winter wonderland, but the beauty of the snow comes with challenges, particularly for those commuting to work or school. With temperatures dropping below freezing overnight, the council has mobilized gritter vehicles to ensure the roads are as safe as possible.

Travel Disruptions and School Closures

Many students in Aberdeenshire faced disruptions as school buses were canceled or rerouted due to adverse road conditions. Parents and guardians were left scrambling for alternative transportation options for their children attending schools like Kellands School in Inverurie and Methlick Primary School in Ellon. The council has advised that the primary routes, which constitute about 50% of the city’s road network, were gritted early in the morning to combat the icy conditions.

Council’s Response to Icy Roads

A spokesperson for Aberdeen City Council stated that gritting operations began around AM, focusing on primary routes and high footfall areas. Union Street and surrounding pavements were prioritized to ensure pedestrian safety. The council is also addressing secondary routes and priority two pavements, which include areas around public facilities and shopping districts. Residents are urged to heed police advice and exercise caution while traveling, as many roads remain icy.

Weather Warnings and Forecasts

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for the northern Highlands, Moray, and the Aberdeenshire coast, predicting continued cold temperatures throughout the day. Reports indicate that temperatures dropped significantly overnight, with Elgin recording -3°C, Aberdeen at -2°C, and Inverness plummeting to -5°C. Forecasters suggest that this cold spell may be the harshest of the winter season thus far, with more wintry weather expected in the coming days.

Community Updates and Safety Precautions

As the situation develops, local reporters are committed to providing timely updates on travel conditions and safety measures. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through local news outlets and the Aberdeenshire Council website, which lists real-time updates on transport services. With winter firmly upon us, community members are reminded to prepare for potential disruptions and to prioritize safety during their daily commutes.