Snow causes more chaos for Scots

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Scotland has been hit by more heavy snow, causing disruption for drivers but creating "phenomenal" conditions for skiers.

Roads were closed across northern Scotland and forecasters said the snow would continue throughout the day.

Forestry Commission Scotland has also warned people to stay away from forest areas in the north east due to heavy snow on trees.

It is particularly concerned about cross-country skiers.

About 12.5in (30cm) of snow fell in Aviemore overnight, while there was 2.5in (6cm) in Aberdeen.

Southern Scotland also experienced heavy snowfall, with about 4in (10cm) falling in Eskdalemuir, Dumfries and Galloway.

Skiers welcomed the weather and resorts were reported to be busy. These branches and trees could break at any time Paul MunroForestry Commission Scotland

A spokeswoman for the Nevis Range, near Fort William, said conditions were "phenomenal, absolutely wonderful".

The main runs at the resort were open and most lifts were operating apart from the summit tow, which was closed due to wind speed.

At Glenshee Ski Centre a few hundred skiers made it to the slopes from the northern road, although the road to the south was closed.

Three slopes were open as it was too windy to open others.

The harsh weather caused chaos in the north on Friday, with almost 200 schools forced to close.

A number of roads were affected in the region and Aberdeen Airport was closed for a second day but reopened on Saturday.

Disruption on the roads has since continued, with the A939 Grantown to Nairn road and the A832 Dundonnell to Braemar route closed.

Grampian Police said most routes were passable with care, but that some untreated minor roads were closed, mainly on higher ground.

Games cancelled

Paul Munro, of Forestry Commission Scotland, said many trees in the north east area had already been broken due to the weight of snow and that others had branches bowing heavily and were at risk of snapping.

"Everyone is venturing out to take part in winter sports and we are particularly concerned about cross-country skiers who go into forests," he said.

"We would ask people not to go to these areas unless they have to, and if they do go out, to take extra caution. These branches and trees could break at any time."

Mr Munro added that some areas had already been cordoned off and urged people not to go beyond the tape.

The Aberdeen v East Fife game at Pittodrie was cancelled because of the weather conditions, as was the Peterhead v Arbroath game at Peterhead.

Forecasters predicted that the weather would improve throughout the day with a scattering of snow showers in the northern Highlands and Grampian area and some of the Borders.

However, more snow is expected on Sunday.