Hundreds of schools have been closed and flights cancelled across parts of the UK as snow and ice continue to cause widespread disruption, with severe weather warnings remaining in force in several regions.
Amber warnings for snow are in place across parts of Scotland, where heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures have led to major travel problems. Yellow warnings for snow and ice cover much of the rest of the UK, including areas of England, Wales and Northern Ireland, with further disruption expected.
Schools Shut as Snow Accumulates
Schools in Shetland, Orkney, the Western Isles, Aberdeenshire and many areas of Moray were closed on Monday due to dangerous conditions. Local authorities said icy roads, drifting snow and safety concerns made it impossible for pupils and staff to travel.
In Northern Ireland, at least 186 schools closed, affecting thousands of pupils. The NI Direct website published a list of affected schools as headteachers cited ice, snow and weather warnings as the main reasons for closures.
Philip McCullagh, principal of St Patrick’s and St Brigid’s College in Claudy, County Derry, said conditions were among the worst he had seen, adding that clearing school grounds and surrounding footpaths would take considerable time.
Severe Travel Disruption Across Scotland
Heavy snowfall has caused major disruption to transport across Scotland, with reports of snow depths reaching 14cm in parts of Aberdeenshire. The Met Office warned that rural communities could be cut off, with a further 10cm expected in low-lying areas and up to 30cm possible on higher ground.
Network Rail Scotland said drifting snow was likely to prevent trains from running on several routes until at least midday, including Aberdeen to Dundee, Aberdeen to Inverness, Inverness to Wick and Thurso, and Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh.
Motorists have been urged to avoid unnecessary journeys, particularly in rural and elevated areas where roads remain untreated.
Flights Cancelled and Airports Affected
Airports across the UK have also been hit by the wintry conditions. Loganair cancelled multiple flights from Aberdeen and Inverness due to heavy snowfall and safety concerns.
Liverpool John Lennon Airport said its runway was closed early on Monday morning because of ice and snow, with delays and cancellations affecting some flights. Passengers were advised to check with airlines before travelling.
In Northern Ireland, several flights were cancelled at both Belfast City Airport and Belfast International Airport. Translink warned of delays to bus services, with some routes operating on main roads only.
Police and Health Warnings Issued
The Police Service of Northern Ireland urged drivers to take extra care, advising motorists to clear snow and ice from vehicles, slow down and increase stopping distances.
The cold snap has also prompted health warnings. The UK Health Security Agency has issued amber cold health alerts across all regions of England, which remain in force until 10am on Friday. The agency warned that prolonged cold temperatures could increase risks for older people and those with existing health conditions.
Ministers Urge Caution as Conditions Continue
Scotland’s transport secretary, Fiona Hyslop, said conditions were expected to remain challenging as snow and ice persist. She urged people to delay travel where possible, ensure vehicles are winter-ready and follow police advice.
She also thanked frontline workers, including gritter drivers, emergency services and infrastructure crews, for operating in difficult and hazardous conditions.
Forecasters say temperatures are likely to remain low for much of the week, with further snow showers possible, particularly in northern and eastern areas.
