The Yellow Warning for Snow and Ice will continue for Orkney until late on Monday night.

Across Scotland weather warnings will also remain in place for some time as the cold spell continues to bite.

Police Scotland Superintendent Helen Harrison said:

“The multi-agency command centre that we have been running all week to deal with the travel issues the severe weather has brought will be in operation right through the weekend. The snow is not due to stop, and neither will we until we are confident that the risks associated with travelling in the poor conditions have reduced significantly.

“The snow has settled and is not expected to thaw, so extreme care will still need to be taken on the roads towards lunchtime and beyond, as public transport systems also start to operate again. You should still consider if your journey is necessary and think about using buses and trains when they are running or postponing your travel until weather has improved further.

“Make sure you check your vehicle thoroughly before starting your journey to make sure lights, washers and wipers are all working properly and tyres are correctly inflated. Clear all snow from the windows and roof so as not to cause a hazard to yourself and others when driving. There is more information on winter driving as well as making your way safely on foot or by cycle on our website at www.scotland.police.uk.”.

Drivers in Orkney have been urged to take extra care and to drive to the road conditions.

With temperatures  as low as -6 degrees, and lower volumes of traffic on roads, there is a risk ‘salt’ laid down during gritting will not activate as readily.

Drivers should also be mindful that snow may fall onto frozen road surfaces and ice may form, especially on untreated areas, and be covered by a layer of snow in some places.

Squally conditions mean there is a risk of gritted roads being covered by drifting snow flurries.

Gritting takes place between 06:00 and 18:00 with priority routes first. Only once those are completed can workers treat minor roads and footpaths.

Regional Forecast for Orkney & Shetland

Saturday:

Yet another cold day with a mixture of occasional snow showers and some bright or sunny intervals. Fresh easterly winds across Orkney, light to moderate over Shetland. Maximum temperature 3 °C.

Outlook for Sunday to Tuesday:

Further showers on Sunday these turning sleety at times, less windy. Winds increasing on Monday, with wintry showers. Tuesday windy with showers turning more to rain, especially over Orkney.

If you have a problem you can contact Orkney Islands Council during office hours (9am to 5pm) by calling the Council’s Customer Services team on 01856873535.