The predicted overnight storms arrived in Moray with a vengeance with police warning motorists to take great care as trees and debris is reported on many roads.
The A96 route between Elgin and Inverness was blocked by a tree just outside Elgin for a period this morning but Moray Council workmen were on hand to clear the road.
Meanwhile another tree had blocked the road at Lintmill, Cullen – again a JCB was on hand early this morning to clear the path.
All trains on the Inverness to Aberdeen line had already been cancelled last night in anticipation of debris on the line – Scotrail are expected to announce later this morning when services might resume.
Flights from Aberdeen and Inverness have also been affected with passengers being advised to check before travelling.
Schools are likely to be affected throughout Moray but as at 7am no notifications of actual closures have been received – parents are advised to check the Moray Council Schools Closure service for information – http://schoolclosures.moray.gov.uk
Update @ 8.30am: Police in Aberdeenshire and Moray have released the following statement:
“In accordance with the Transport Scotland Severe Weather Information Strategy, the Aberdeen City, Aberdeenshire & Moray Divisions are currently operating at Stage 2 – Travel with Extra Caution.
“Several routes are affected by fallen trees and branches. Motorists should drive at an appropriate speed and expect to encounter fallen branches/trees on the roads.”
Three Moray schools are closed today – Dallas, Knockando and Rothiemay primaries.
Uddate @ 9.30am: A fourth Moray school – Logie – has been closed for today.
SEPA has issued a coastal flood warning for low-lying coast roads from spray and overlapping waves around high tide (Buckie around 3pm this afternoon).
Road and rail issues are expected to continue throughout the day but additional resources have been deployed to clear fallen trees and debris.