Public transport comes to a standstill as snowy conditions worsen
A number of Wednesday’s flights to and from Sumburgh have also been cancelled in advance
PUBLIC transport in Shetland is beginning to shut down for the day as snow continues to fall.
Shetland Islands Council has confirmed that there will be no more public bus runs for the rest of the day due to the poor conditions on the roads.
Services will be reviewed again from early tomorrow morning (Wednesday).
Gritting crews continue to do their best but there has been fresh snowfall during the day, with more forecast amid freezing temperatures.
Local police said earlier today to “consider whether your journey is necessary before setting off and drive to the conditions of the roads”.
Meanwhile Sumburgh Airport is at a standstill due to the conditions, and Loganair has cancelled a number of services on Wednesday too (see image).
A spokesperson for airport operator HIAL said: “Adverse weather is affecting Sumburgh airport and is impacting flight schedules.
“We advise customers to contact their airlines for the latest flight information.”
With the wind dying down, the NorthLink ferry service is running as usual.
A host of businesses and public places are closed for the today, such as Mareel, while the Clickimin Leisure Complex shut early.
UHI Shetland said its Lerwick campus closed early at midday, whilst the Islesburgh Community Centre is shutting its doors at 2.30pm.
With poor driving conditions and the wintry weather set to continue for the next few days, Shetland Islands Council encouraged people to support each other in the community, and to look out for any vulnerable neighbours.
Health and social care teams are contacting clients and those known to be vulnerable and at risk.
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However, if anyone has a need for urgent support, contact the duty social work service on 01595 744468 (during office hours) or 01595 695611 (out of hours).
The council said: “Our staff will do what they can to link you to the help you need within your community.”
All of Shetland’s schools are shut today as most bairns enjoy a second day in a row at home.
A detailed weather forecast can be found at: https://www.shetnews.co.uk/weather/
Shetland News is collecting photos of the snow from readers’, and we will publish a gallery later today.
Feel free to email any images to news@shetnews.co.uk or get in touch via social media.
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