Wintry conditions in Caithness may lead to power cuts
The Met Office says snow and ice will likely result in difficult travelling conditions and possible power cuts in Caithness.
Issued at 8.54am today, the bulletin states that there is a small chance that power cuts will occur and other services, such as mobile phone coverage, may be affected.
It continues: “Snow showers will affect many northern and western areas of Scotland through Wednesday and overnight into Thursday.
“The showers will be frequent at times and may also be accompanied by hail. Snow accumulations are likely to reach 2 to 5cm fairly widely with up to 10cm in some areas, especially northwestern parts of the mainland.
“Over high ground, above about 300 metres, 15 to 20cm could accumulate in this time period. Ice will be an additional hazard, forming readily on untreated surfaces (particularly after dark).”
What to expect
• A small chance that untreated pavements and cycle paths become impassable
• There is a slight chance that some rural communities could become cut off
• A small chance of injuries from slips and falls on icy surfaces
• There is a small chance of travel delays on roads with some stranded vehicles and passengers, along with delayed or cancelled rail and air travel
What should I do?
Snowy, wintry weather can cause delays and make driving conditions dangerous, so to keep yourself and others safe: plan your route, checking for delays and road closures, amending your travel plans if necessary; if driving, leave more time to prepare and check your car before setting off; make sure you have essentials packed in your car in the event of any delays (warm clothing, food, water, a blanket, a torch, ice scraper/de-icer, a warning triangle, high visibility vest and an in-car phone charger).
Keep yourself and your family safe when it is icy. Plan to leave the house at least five minutes earlier than normal to reduce your risk of accidents, slips, and falls. If making a journey on foot, try to use pavements along main roads which are likely to be less slippery. Similarly, if cycling, try and stick to main roads which are more likely to have been treated.
Give yourself the best chance of avoiding delays by checking road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary.
People cope better when they have prepared in advance for the risk of power cuts or being cut off from services and amenities due to the snow. It’s easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items.
Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly: when a weather warning is issued, the Met Office recommends staying up to date with the weather forecast in your area.
Highland Council’s road report for Caithness states: “Light covering of snow affecting all routes this morning, with most routes staying below freezing all day. All routes being treated as necessary. No known issues to report.”
