Blizzards and gales on the way to Scotland from USA

THE cold weather front that dumped heavy snow over the east coast of America last week is set to arrive over Scotland today.

Snow accompanied by winds touching gale force were forecast to hit the morning commute across the whole of Scotland, with falls of up to four inches on higher grounds, as the remains of weather storm Nemo arrive in the west.

The Met Office issued a yellow “be prepared” warning yesterday for virtually all of the country, predicting that sleet and snow would spread eastwards across Scotland.

Met Office spokesman Charles Powell said that Nemo had been heavily modified during its journey across the Atlantic, and that it would not have anywhere near the same power or impact.

He said: “It’s going to affect inland areas mainly, so a good deal of Grampian, the Highlands, probably the Southern Uplands as well, as we go through the day. Basically, the highest hills and mountains. But there will be snow at lower levels as well – so we’re likely to see two to four centimetres at lower levels. Above 200 metres, though, we’re likely to see accumulations of up to 10cm building up.”

Describing the weather as “disruptive”, Mr Powell added: “It could be difficult to get out and about. And while it will be short-lived, people should make sure that they are aware of what’s going on, checking with Transport Scotland to find out what is going on.

“There is a possibility that at the highest levels some routes may not possible.”

A Transport Scotland spokesman said last night: “Following the very latest Met Office updates, Transport Scotland officials are in regular contact with the Met Office, operating companies, police and other key responders to ensure suitable preparations are put in place.”

However, by tomorrow morning the majority of the rain and snow will have cleared Scotland, and this will be followed by a spell of generally dry and warmer weather.