Several roads across Aberdeenshire were closed yesterday as stormy weather continued to batter the country.
Motorists in Moray, Aberdeen City and Shire had to contend with high winds and drifting snow which deteriorated road visibility.
The first of the closures came at 11.15am when police announced the A93 Braemar to Cairnwell road was shut.
They advised motorists to avoid all high roads and drive with caution.
Chief superintendent for the roads unit, Ian Murray, said: “Road policing crews are out and about patrolling the trunk roads and other priority routes in the areas affected by today’s bad weather to help keep people safe.
“We would urge the public to please follow our advice to travel with extra caution.”
By 4.15pm, the A939 Cock Bridge to Tomintoul, A93 Glenshee to Braemar, and B974 Banchory to Fettercairn roads were closed due to the adverse weather conditions.
Twenty vehicles had earlier been reported stuck on the B974 because of icy conditions shortly before 8am but were on their way again by 9.40am.
Aberdeenshire Council’s roads manager for Kincardine and Mearns, Stuart McFarlane, said: “This morning when roads supervisors were made aware that this particular stretch of the B974 was icy, a gritter was already on its way to cover the route.
“As the winter weather continues, I would ask drivers to ensure they drive carefully, pay due attention to the weather forecast and report any road problems, including winter maintenance related issues.”
No flood warnings were in force across Moray, Aberdeen City or Shire, but the Met Office had issued a yellow warning for high winds which would bring “unusually high” waves.
The only school affected was West End Primary in Elgin which had been closed in the afternoon due to an electrical failure.
Overnight, a tree in the centre of the Moray town had toppled over.
Deputy First Minister John Swinney said that authorities would continue to keep communities informed, connected and safe throughout the storm.
“We know that, despite detailed planning, some disruption is inevitable in these severe weather events. The key is how we respond, especially if vulnerable communities or elderly people are affected,” he added.
Aberdeenshire Council meanwhile has prepped gritters to tackle roads and pavements in the morning.