Traffic Scotland: Severe Winter Weather Brings Major Road Closures and Travel Disruption

Winter Weather Creates Challenging Road Conditions Across Scotland

Scotland’s road network is facing significant disruption as heavy snow has forced the closure of major routes including the A9/A99 between Helmsdale and Wick in both directions. The severe weather conditions have prompted authorities to urge motorists to avoid non-essential travel as snowfall overnight has led to drifting snow on multiple routes across the network.

Traffic Scotland’s Critical Role in Road Safety

Traffic Scotland provides real-time information about Scotland’s trunk road network, serving as the nation’s primary traffic intelligence service. The service enables the collection and distribution of real-time traffic information relating to incidents and events currently taking place on the Scottish trunk road network. During this current weather emergency, the system has proven invaluable for keeping drivers informed about dangerous conditions.

Current Road Closures and Incidents

Multiple routes across Scotland remain impassable. The A90 is currently closed northbound at North Water Bridge due to a fire on or near the carriageway, while the A93 and A939 are closed at snow gates due to adverse weather conditions. In the Highlands, heavy snowfall overnight and strong winds have created bad drifting with many roads impassable in Caithness.

Weather Warnings and Safety Advice

Yellow snow and ice warnings are in effect across Highland and Western Isles, Grampian, Central, Tayside and Fife, and Strathclyde regions. Highland Council has issued urgent advice, stating only travel if it is absolutely necessary. Road maintenance crews are working around the clock, with authorities focusing on getting primary routes cleared first.

Looking Ahead: Planning Your Journey

For motorists across Scotland, checking Traffic Scotland before travelling has become essential. The service provides comprehensive information on incidents, roadworks, and weather conditions across the trunk road and motorway network. As winter conditions continue to affect the region, drivers are advised to monitor Traffic Scotland updates regularly, allow extra travel time, and ensure vehicles are winter-ready with appropriate emergency kits. The current disruption underscores the importance of Scotland’s traffic management infrastructure in keeping road users safe during challenging weather conditions.