Roads blocked and services disrupted as snow hits Lothians

A number of roads across Edinburgh and the Lothians have been blocked by adverse weather as commuters and transport struggles across the city.

Despite gritters being out in force across the city, a number of roads remain treacherous due to winter weather.

Up to 25cm was expected to fall on higher ground and up to 10cm at lower levels by this morning.

A Met Office severe weather amber warning was in force until 8am today, and a series of yellow alerts for further snowfall over much of Scotland will continue until late on Friday.

Adverse weather in Penicuik, A701. Picture; Ian Georgeson

A Met Office spokeswoman said there would be gusts of 60mph-70mph “quite widely” and “a small chance of winds reaching 80mph in places”. The warning will be in force from 9pm tonight until 11am tomorrow.

She said: “Very strong winds will affect parts of the UK during Wednesday night and into Thursday. The strongest winds are expected to transfer eastwards across the warning area before clearing by early afternoon.

“Road, rail and ferry services may be affected, with longer journey times and cancellations.

“There is also a possibility that some bridges may close.

Adverse weather in Penicuik, A701. Picture; Ian Georgeson

“Power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services such as mobile phone coverage.

“Injuries and danger to life from flying debris are possible, along with some damage to buildings.

Read more at: https://www.scotsman.com/news/scotland-s-weather-80mph-gales-and-three-more-days-of-snow-1-4663445

Lothian Buses tweeted “Snow and ice are affecting many routes this morning. Please be careful getting around and check our twitter feed or website for updates before you travel.”

First also stated that the weather was having an impact on their services tweeting: “Please be aware that all services are currently running however, due to the weather conditions, services are following main roads as they are unable to serve small roads.”

Drivers have been urged to take care and to allow extra time for their journey if possible.

A yellow warning remains in place for Edinburgh as snow is set to continue until Thursday.

A number of drivers have had problems with road conditions with skidding a particular issue due to rain and snow.

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