Aberdeenshire Winter Storm Update: Major Incident Declared (2026)

Aberdeenshire Winter Weather Updates: A Comprehensive Guide

Tuesday, January 6, 2024

Aberdeenshire Council has declared a major incident due to the prolonged period of severe weather conditions. Here's a detailed breakdown of the situation and the council's response:

Weather Warnings:

• Met Office Amber Warning: Heavy snow is expected across Aberdeenshire and northeast Scotland from 11 am to 7 pm today, causing significant disruptions.
• Yellow Warning: A new warning for snow and ice is in effect from midnight tonight (Tuesday) to midnight tomorrow, with further snow and ice likely on Wednesday, leading to potential ongoing disruptions.

Expected Impacts:

• Travel Disruptions: Delays and potential stranding of vehicles and passengers on roads.
• Rail and Air Travel: Delays and cancellations are probable.
• Rural Communities: There's a high chance that some rural areas may become isolated.
• Health Risks: Injuries from slips and falls on icy surfaces are likely.
• Infrastructure: Untreated pavements and cycle paths will likely be impassable, and power cuts may occur, affecting mobile phone coverage and other services.

Council's Response:

• Roads: Focus on primary roads to maintain connectivity and vital supply deliveries. Treatment of secondary and minor roads is also underway.
• Equipment: Additional snowblowers and other equipment have been secured to clear routes that cannot be ploughed.
• Gritting Strategy: Prioritizing grit application on all surfaces for maximum mechanical grip, rather than salt, which is being supplemented with new reserves.

Schools and Waste Management:

• Schools: Teams are assessing the situation, considering travel conditions and resources.
• Waste Collections: Bin collections are attempted in specific areas today, and residents are advised to keep bins accessible. Recycling centers are being cleared, but some may close early for staff safety.

Housing and Health Services:

• Housing Repairs: Emergency repairs are prioritized to ensure safety.
• Health & Social Care: All vaccination centers are closed today, and some health services are redirected due to staffing issues. GP practices have reduced capacity.

Stay Informed and Prepared:

• Road Users: Plan ahead, avoid unnecessary travel, and prepare vehicles for adverse conditions.
• Charging and Supplies: Ensure mobile phones are charged and have sufficient fuel, warm clothing, food, and water for potential delays.

Monday, January 5, 2024

• Weather Warnings: Ice and snow warnings remain in effect, causing ongoing disruptions.
• Council and Health Services: Teams are working tirelessly to mitigate the impact on citizens.
• Roads: Primary routes are prioritized for clearing, but extreme caution is advised on all roads.

Next Steps:

The council and related services will continue to monitor the situation, providing updates as necessary. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official sources and take appropriate precautions.