Thursday, February 12, 2026 — Edinburgh Large parts of Scotland faced wintry showers, snowfall and renewed flood warnings on Thursday as severe weather swept across the region, disrupting travel and prompting authorities to urge caution.
The Met Office issued multiple alerts covering eastern and central Scotland, warning that a combination of heavy rain and plunging temperatures could create hazardous conditions on roads and rail lines. In higher elevations, forecasters predicted several centimeters of snow by evening.
Emergency services reported localized flooding overnight, particularly in low-lying communities near the River Tay and River Dee. Local councils deployed sandbags and activated response teams to monitor rising water levels.
“Conditions are challenging, especially where rainfall transitions to ice,” said Inspector Alan McBride of Police Scotland. “Motorists should avoid unnecessary travel and allow extra time if journeys cannot be postponed.”
Rail operators confirmed delays on several routes linking Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aberdeen due to signaling issues and speed restrictions imposed for safety. Some rural bus services were suspended temporarily as a precaution.
The severe weather follows weeks of unusually wet conditions across the UK, raising concerns about cumulative impacts on infrastructure. Engineers are inspecting bridges and drainage systems to ensure structural safety amid fluctuating temperatures.
Residents in affected areas described a rapid shift from rain to snow in the early hours. “It started as heavy rain, then suddenly everything turned white,” said Fiona Campbell, who lives outside Perth. “The roads became icy very quickly.”
Meteorologists explained that cold Arctic air moving south collided with moisture-laden systems from the Atlantic, producing unstable weather patterns typical of late winter but intensified by recent climate variability.
Hospitals and care facilities reviewed contingency plans, though health officials reported no major disruptions as of midday Thursday. Schools in several Highland communities announced early closures to ensure pupils could travel home safely.
Energy providers said they are prepared for potential power outages, with crews on standby should high winds or ice damage overhead lines. No widespread blackouts had been reported by early afternoon.
Scottish First Minister addressed the situation during a briefing in Edinburgh, emphasizing coordination between local authorities and emergency responders. “Public safety remains our top priority,” she said. “We encourage residents to follow official guidance and stay informed.”
Businesses in city centers remained largely open, though foot traffic was lighter than usual. Retailers noted that weather advisories often reduce customer visits during peak winter periods.
Climate researchers say such volatile weather patterns may become more frequent. While snow itself is not uncommon in February, the rapid alternation between heavy rain and freezing conditions increases risks of flash flooding and icy surfaces.
Forecasters expect the worst conditions to ease overnight, though cold temperatures are likely to persist into the weekend. Additional weather advisories may be issued if rainfall intensifies.
For many Scots, the day served as a reminder of winter’s unpredictability. Authorities continue to advise residents to monitor official updates and check on vulnerable neighbors.
As the storm system moves eastward, attention turns to whether further disruption will follow — or whether calmer conditions will finally bring relief after weeks of unsettled weather across the United Kingdom.
