Transport bosses are warning of likely travel disruption ahead of the expected deteriorating weather conditions in the north this evening.
The Met Office has issued an amber “be prepared” warning for snow in Shetland and a wider yellow “be aware” warning for ice across the Highlands, Western Isles and Argyll.
The weather is expected to worsen around this evening’s peak period and with snow forecast overnight, there is also a high risk of disruption for road journeys into tomorrow morning.
Transport Scotland is working with partner organisations, including police and the transport operators, to try to mitigate the effects of the wintry conditions.
Tonight, Bear Scotland will have a fleet of 180 operatives out and ready to deal with the cold snap across the North East and the North West trunk roads, carrying 52,000 tonnes of salt.
Passengers should check their travel operator’s website before they leave and be mindful of the conditions.
Transport Minister, Derek Mackay said: “A wide range of agencies and organisations have their response plans in action to try to mitigate the effects of this latest set of wintry conditions but it is likely that there will be disruption to the transport network.
“The weather is forecast to deteriorate this evening and these conditions will last into tomorrow morning across the peak period when people are traveling to work.
“We have more gritters available across the trunk roads this year than ever before and these will be out with patrols across the day and night. There is plenty of salt available and the winter control rooms are monitoring conditions 24/7 to ensure that the fleet is treating and patrolling where required.
“Drivers should listen to police advice, check their route is available and leave some extra time for their journeys. Live information on conditions is available on the Traffic Scotland Twitter feed, smartphone App, internet radio and website.”