The weather has been horrible in the last days bringing heavy snow and high winds to Argyll and other areas in the UK. Yesterday several ferries to and from Islay were cancelled and others were delayed. Due to these severe weather conditions and heavy snow in places there are many homes without power. Also roads are badly affected, especially the A83 at Clachan which is closed due to heavy snow. Today the weather has improved somewhat but the problems are far from over.

Calmac just announced that "Kennacraig terminal is without mains electricity, telephone lines and all roads to and from the port are affected by heavy snowfall." This means that "the MV Lord of the Isles will depart Kennacraig at 1445hrs (delayed 1300hrs sailing) heading for Port Askaig where the vessel will discharge and load traffic departing as soon as possible as the delayed 1530hrs sailing to Kennacraig. As a result of this the 1800hrs departure from Kennacraig this evening will be delayed by approximately 90 minutes. "

The Argyll and Bute Council is updating their website frequently with the latest info on the severe weather: "We are still focussing our efforts on reopening the A83 at Clachan, which is currently closed due to heavy snow. As well as the excavators which have been working at both sides of the blockage, more resources are being brought in to help our teams deal with challenging weather conditions. This includes a snow blower which will be used at other points throughout Kintyre when the road at Clachan is cleared. There are low-hanging power cables near roads in some places in Kintyre. Scottish and Southern Energy staff are monitoring the situation, but people should keep well away from these – do not approach or touch any power cables." Read more....

"There are some issues with the roads network elsewhere in Argyll and Bute as a result of high winds, drifting snow and fallen trees. In Kintyre, the Southend to Stewarton Road is currently closed. There is a fallen tree on the A8003 at Tighnabruaich, although small vehicles can still get through with care. Elsewhere in Cowal, the A886 at Colintraive is closed. In the Oban area, the A828 is blocked by a fallen tree near the Sealife Centre. Finally, Keil Road near Ledaig has a tree on the roadway but smaller vehicles can still use the road. We are continuing gritting and ploughing on other roads across the area as required."

The council also issued the following statement: "Schools in the Knapdale, Kintyre and the Isles areas (from Tarbert to Campbeltown, including outlying areas and islands including Islay and Gigha) are unlikely to open on Monday 25 March unless electricity supplies in the area are restored. These schools may also be affected on Tuesday 26 and Wednesday 27 March depending on the power supply situation."

To stay up-to-date with the latest information visit the Service Disruptions page on the Argyll and Bute Council website. For ferries visit the Service Status page.

Tag: weather transport ferries