SCOTTISH Borders Council (SBC) and partners are continuing to deal with exceptionally challenging circumstances as the impact of the severe weather continues.

Snow showers have continued across the area during the night, with the easterly winds continuing to gust to 30-40mph.

This is resulting in drifting snow, bringing large accumulations in many places, especially exposed, higher routes.

The Amber (Be Prepared) weather warning ended at 10am.

A Yellow (Be Aware) warning for snow is valid through until 11.55pm on Saturday for the whole of the Borders, with an additional Yellow warning for most of area until late Monday.

Tracey Logan, Chief Executive of SBC said: “Even though the Amber warning finished at 10am, we are reminding residents that conditions are exceptionally hazardous, with a large number of routes, including some A roads, closed.

“I would like to make a plea to our residents to continue to avoid traveling unless necessary to allow our crews to do their job.

“We also need people to only contact us if it is a genuine concern or emergency. This does not, for example include individual requests to clear specific streets and isolated locations.

“Our crews are dealing with extremely challenging conditions, with high winds and drifting snow causing lots of issues. We continue to focus on our primary network, particularly A roads and are also prioritising support for the emergency services.

“We are urging our Resilient Communities to respond within their communities to assist the elderly and the vulnerable and respond to any required tasks such as clearing pathways/school access routes and carry out shopping for those who are unable to get out. Their assistance is greatly appreciated.

“We also need everyone else to play their part and check on the vulnerable.

“If people are out and about on foot, please be sensible in terms of where you are walking and wear appropriate clothing. Make sure you tell someone where you are going and what time you expect to be there or back. Ensure you have a fully charged mobile phone with you.

“Please avoid walking on roads and also be aware of large icicles which have also formed on buildings and structures.

“Please do not put yourself in danger.”

  • Forecast

Frequent snow showers are likely to continue on a very cold easterly wind.

Due to the nature of showers, some places are expected to receive an additional 5-10 cm of snow per day over the weekend until Monday.

Strong winds will lead to severe drifting of lying snow in places, as well as a severe wind chill. 

Weather warning information is available from the Met Office.  

  • Waste

All waste collections are suspended today (Friday, March 2), Community Recycling Centres (CRCs) are closed today and will remain closed over the weekend. Crews will assist with snow clearance.

  • Schools

We expect some school closures to still be in place on Monday, particularly in rural areas. A full assessment is underway and information will be issued over the weekend.

  • Health and social care assistance

SBC is assisting NHS Borders with support for residents who require health or medical assistance during the severe weather period. Call 0300 100 1800 for support. This will also be in place over the weekend.

  • Pre-payment cards for gas/electricity

If you have any issues with your pre-payment cards for gas/electricity supply, please contact your supplier directly and they may be able to assist.