Fife Weather: Amber alert extended until Friday

Snow continues to fall whipped up by bitterly cold high winds, causing major disruption across the region, and posing serious problems for commuters.

Fife Council’s latest update spoke of ‘‘challenging conditions’’ and also paid tribute to the many Fifers who have offered help.

All schools will be closed on Friday, while the doors will also remain shut to museums, libraries, theatres and leisure centres.

Bin collections have also been cancelled for a second day.

Although the Red Alert has passed, the Met Office has extended the Amber Alert for snow until 10am Friday.

The council says it has enough salt to grit its roads, but it is fighting an almost impossible battle in the face of the relentless wintry weather.

A total of 24 gritters and ploughs are on the roads at the moment – 18 JCBs and 39 tractors clearing snow as well as over 150 staff from parks and waste services out helping to clear roads and paths.

Steve Grimmond, chief executive, said: “Conditions continue to be challenging for everyone. I’d like to say well done and thank you to all the staff who are putting in huge effort to combat the snow and help those in most need.

“I’d also like to thank all the members of the public who have been offering help and resources.

‘‘There’s great community spirit across Fife. We can’t always take up such offers of help for practical or legal reasons - particularly when we’re delivering services to vulnerable clients – but I’d urge everyone to check on friends, relatives and neighbours where you can. Everyone can play their part in their own street and neighbourhood.’’

As more snow and high winds are expected, drifting will continue to make travel very difficult.

Mr Grimmond said: ‘‘We are working hard to clear roads and the priority continues to be ploughing our snow routes as well as primary and secondary routes.’’

The council’s contact centre will continue to operate an emergency service only until Monday.

Residents are asked to go online to check for advice and ask questions. Please only call a council number if absolutely necessary, to make sure the most vulnerable people and those in emergency situations can get through on the phone.

Non-essential appointments and visits are likely to be cancelled.

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