Scotland's weather: Ice warning threatens "tricky" driving conditions

Drivers are warned of "tricky" conditions tonight across western Scotland after the Met Office issued a severe weather warning for ice.

An ice warning has been issued for roads tonight. Picture: Paul Campbell

The yellow - "be aware" - alert will be in force from 6pm to 10am tomorrow.

It covers the western half of the Central Belt, and western Scotland from Fort William to the English Border.

A Met Office spokeswoman said: "Wintry showers later on Thursday and overnight into Friday will lead to some ice, primarily on untreated surfaces, but perhaps also where grit is washed off by frequent showers.

"Additionally, 1-3cm of snow may accumulate on hills above around 100-200m, and more than 6cm above 400m.

"Some of the heaviest showers could produce slushy conditions even at low levels.

"Please be aware of possible tricky travel conditions."

The agency said a cold north-westerly airstream would bring heavy showers or rain, sleet, snow and hail during the warning period.

It added that clear spells in between wouldl allow temperatures to fall close to or below freezing, causing the risk of ice.