Amber snow warning for Lothian region

An amber warning of snow has been issued for the Lothian region from 9pm this evening as forecasters predict a spell of 'persistent and heavy' snow overnight.

The Met Office has issued an amber warning.

The Met Office alert will apply from 9pm on Wednesday until 5am on Thursday, with the snow expected to clear away eastwards by dawn.

The chief forecaster’s assessment reads: “A deepening area of low pressure is expected to track east across the UK during Wednesday night and early Thursday.

“A spell of persistent and heavy snow is expected to develop. 3-8 cm of fresh snow is likely to accumulate widely with up to 20 cm over high ground.”

Forecasters have warned the snow will likely cause more delays on the region’s roads and that there is the possibility that some vehicles and passengers could become stranded.

They added delays or cancellations were likely to rail and air travel, with some rural communities likely to become cut off or to experience power outages.

A yellow warning of snow and ice will then be in place for the Lothian region from 9am on Thursday until 11.55pm on Friday night.