Call for military to clear snow in Aberdeenshire amid ‘critical’ weather conditions

An Aberdeenshire MP has pleaded for the military to be drafted in to clear snow and deliver essentials to communities that have been cut off.

Conservative Andrew Bowie, who represents West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine, said he is becoming “increasingly concerned” about the weather, describing the “situation” as “critical”.

Heavy blizzards left part of Aberdeenshire buried under several inches of snow on Monday.

The region is braced for more weather misery after the Met Office issued another amber warning for snow for Tuesday.

In a letter to First Minister John Swinney, Mr Bowie urged the Scottish Government to “mobilise all available resources” and to request military support from the UK Government.

Defence is a reserved matter and managed by the UK Government.

Mr Bowie said: “The extreme weather has led to entire communities being cut off with many now worried about food and medical supplies.

“Council staff, farmers, emergency service workers and volunteers are doing incredible work, but I am increasingly concerned as the temperature looks set to remain at or below freezing for the foreseeable future and more snow possible.”

In the letter, he wrote: “I am writing to express my serious concern about the ongoing extreme snow and weather conditions affecting Aberdeenshire, and the urgent need for additional support to reach those who are most vulnerable.

“The situation has now become critical. Many people are increasingly cut off, with access to essential food supplies and medical provisions becoming extremely difficult and, in some instances, impossible.

‘There is a real and growing risk that individuals may be left without basic necessities’

“There is a real and growing risk that individuals may be left without basic necessities unless urgent action is taken.

“While emergency services, gritters, farmers and volunteer groups are going above and beyond to support their communities, in many cases they are quite simply overwhelmed by the scale and persistence of the conditions.

“Given the seriousness of the situation, I would ask that the Scottish Government urgently considers mobilising all available resources, including the armed forces, to assist with snow clearance, the delivery of essential supplies, access to remote communities and transportation to hospital.

“In addition, I would urge the Scottish Government to take further steps to inform and reassure the public, through leaflets and online resources, with clear guidance on how to keep you and your family safe and how to request help during emergencies.

“I would be grateful if you could give this matter your urgent consideration and circulate it to the relevant Cabinet colleagues.

“I look forward to your response and to understanding what immediate and longer-term actions the Scottish Government intends to take to support affected communities.”

The Scottish Government held a crisis meeting this afternoon, warning “impacts will continue to be felt in the coming days”.

First Minister John Swinney said “ministers will continue to keep the situation under review”.

He added: “I have heard of truly exceptional efforts by farmers, volunteers and members of the public offering to clear local roads, dig out cars and keep people safe.

“That community spirit is truly heartening to hear.”

Drivers warned to consider whether journeys are necessary

Meanwhile, Police Scotland urged locals to consider whether journeys are necessary before driving.

Assistant Chief Constable Alan Waddell said: “Heavy snow and ice means driving conditions are likely to continue to be hazardous in some areas.

“Our advice is to plan ahead and consider if your journey is really necessary.

“If you need to travel, please fully clear your vehicle windows of snow and ice before you drive, drive to the conditions, be prepared for delays and allow extra time for your journey.”

An amber weather warning for snow was in place overnight until 10am, where it was then downgraded to yellow until 23.59pm.

Hundreds of schools across the north and north-east were closed, while supermarket shelves were cleared of essentials.

The Scottish Government, UK Government and Ministry of Defence have been contacted for comment.

[Source: Press and Journal]