Storm Bert snow storm causes travel chaos as roads closed and trains cancelled

Roads have been closed across Scotland as the snow causes chaos for motorists.

Gritters have been battling to make conditions safe for drivers this morning, Saturday, November 23, as Storm Bert causes widespread disruption.

The Met Office has issued an amber alert that covers Angus, Perth and Kinross, Stirlingshire, Aberdeenshire and some of the Highlands, Argyll and Bute, the Borders, Dumfries and Galloway, East Ayrshire and South Lanarkshire.

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It was announced at around 10:35am that the M90 Queensferry Crossing has been shut in both directions over safety concerns and motorists will be diverted over the Forth Road Bridge.

The Queensferry Crossing has been closed due to ice fears
The Queensferry Crossing has been closed due to ice fears

Traffic came to a standstill on the M8 motorway at junction 13 due to a vehicle stuck in the snow.

Traffic Scotland announced at 9:50am that the A68 at St Boswells in the Borders is closed in both directions due to the weather conditions.

Amney NE Trunk Roads warned drivers on the M90 at Kelty and to only travel if necessary.

The A737 has been blocked at Lochwinnoch to Howwood due to a road traffic collision involving a lorry.

Police Scotland urged motorists in Glasgow to take care on while driving on the M8, M74 and M77.

Bear NW Trunk Road advised drivers on the A9 at Drumochter, A82 at Glencoe and the A83, Rest and be Thankful to drive to the conditions and to check with local media before travelling.

Bear SE Trunk Roads have deployed gritters to the A702, A68, A7, M8 and M9 but ask motorists to drive safe and take care on the roads.

Police Scotland has also issued advice for drivers on the road this morning.

Superintendent Vinnie Fisher, deputy head of Road Policing, said: “All road users should consider if they really need to travel in adverse weather.

“When driving on ice and snow, keep well back from the road user in front. Stopping distances can be up to ten times greater than on dry roads.

“Check your windscreen washer levels and ensure your windows are completely clear before driving. Failure to do so can result in a fine.

“Listen to media broadcasts for updates, follow Transport Scotland and the Met Office on social media and share information with others.”

Advice for road users:

  • Keep well back from the road user in front. Stopping distances in snowy or icy conditions can be up to 10x greater than on dry roads.

  • Check your windscreen washer levels and effectiveness of wiper blades.

  • Check your vehicle’s lights. You must ensure your lights are clean and number plates are clearly visible

  • Ensure your windows are completely clear before driving. Failure to do so can result in a fine

  • If you are travelling on the roads, prepare yourself and your vehicle for the conditions

  • Ensure your mobile phone is charged and plan your journey, including an alternative route

  • Have sufficient fuel, warm clothing, food and water in case you’re delayed

  • Do not ignore road closure signs – they are for your safety

  • Congestion caused by vehicles may restrict emergency services and recovery vehicles from providing essential assistance

  • Listen to media broadcasts, including radio, for updates Traffic Scotland radio player | Traffic Scotland or visit Traffic Scotland | Trunk road traffic updates & route planner

  • Follow your local authority for the latest updates in your area via Facebook, Twitter/X or their website

  • Other information can be found on the Met Office, Ready Scot. For public transport information visit www.travelinescotland.

  • Follow @policescotland and @trafficscotland on Twitter/X for up-to-date travel information.

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