Edinburgh Hogmanay party cancelled amid upgraded weather warnings
The capital's street party and fireworks have been cancelled.
Last updated 30th Dec 2024
Edinburgh's famous Hogmanay celebrations have been cancelled as severe weather batters Scotland as the New Year approaches.
A weather warning of heavy rain has been upgraded to amber for part of northern Scotland on Hogmanay.
The Met Office alert, which warns that flooding and travel disruption is likely, is in force from midnight until 5pm on Tuesday in Moray and the Highlands.
A yellow weather warning of heavy rain and snow is currently in force across most of Scotland on Monday and Tuesday.
An Edinburgh’s Hogmanay spokesperson said: "Due to ongoing high winds and inclement weather in Edinburgh city centre, we regret to announce that outdoor events scheduled for tonight (30th Dec) and the 31st December are unable to go ahead on the grounds of public safety.
"The cancellation includes tonight's Night Afore Disco Party in West Princes Street Gardens, and on the 31st December, the Edinburgh's Hogmanay Street Party, Concert in the Gardens, and the Midnight Fireworks from Edinburgh Castle.
"We have unfortunately been unable to continue with preparations and necessary set-up for Edinburgh’s Hogmanay outdoor events due to extreme weather and forecast conditions.
"Therefore, for safety reasons we, along with our event partners, have taken the difficult decision to cancel all outdoor events.
"We know that this will be hugely disappointing to all hoping to celebrate Hogmanay in Edinburgh and that people travel from around the world to be here at the Home of Hogmanay. Customer Service from point of purchase will be in touch with ticketholders directly with further instructions regarding refunds in due course."
City of Edinburgh Council Leader Jane Meagher, said: “I know that, like me, many people will be very disappointed. This decision was not taken lightly, however with the ongoing adverse weather condition, public safety must be our number one priority.
"You’ll see from the programme that there are lots of exciting indoor events taking place. For those coming along to them – I know you’re in for a treat and will have a great time. Please make sure you stay up-to-date with the weather and transport on social media.”
Chief Superintendent David Robertson, Police Scotland Gold Commander for Edinburgh’s Hogmanay, said: “Cancelling such an event is a difficult decision for the organisers, but public safety takes priority, so we fully support this decision.”
Major Travel disruption
Heavy rain has already caused travel disruption on December 30 with the Highland Main Line closed due to high water levels on the Gynack Burn at Kingussie.
The Crianlarich-Oban line was also shut for a time due to flooding between Tyndrum Lower and Dalmally but later reopened.
David Ross, ScotRail’s Communications Director said: “There’s significant disruption between Inverness and the central belt, caused by the heavy rain with flooding at Kingussie.
“That’s resulted in the line being closed between Perth and Inverness at the moment.
“We do have buses in place to get people between Perth and Inverness and from Perth south.
“As always, our advice to people is to check the website and our social media for updates before they travel and to plan ahead.”
Forecasters predict that heavy rain will become persistent and widespread in Scotland during Monday and Tuesday with 50-70mm of rain possible over the two days in many areas while some places may see 100-140mm.
The Scottish Government Resilience Room (SGORR) has been activated in response to the weather warnings and authorities have advised people to plan ahead if travelling over the New Year period.
Douglas Cairns, Traffic Scotland operator manager at Transport Scotland, said: "The severe weather across much of Scotland this week will, unfortunately, cause some disruption across the transport network.
"Road, rail, air and ferry services are all likely to be affected by the conditions, with localised flooding, longer journey times and cancellations possible, as well as potential restrictions on bridges.
"The network is also expected to be busy as people travel to celebrate New Year with friends and family.
"We are asking travellers to plan their journeys before setting off to ensure they reach their destination and celebrations in good time.
"If you're driving, make sure your vehicle is winter ready and follow any Police Scotland travel advice that may be in place. Traffic Scotland provides up-to-date travel information on the trunk road network through its website, X account and internet radio broadcasts.
"The same advice goes for other modes of transport - if you are planning to travel by rail, air or ferry, stay in contact with your operator for the latest service information."
Scottish Government officials will continue to monitor the situation and work with frontline agencies to mitigate the impact of the weather.
Flood warnings issued
There were 10 flood alerts and 20 flood warnings in force in Scotland at 1.30pm on Monday.
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa) is warning communities in the north west and central Highlands to prepare for the impact of flooding in the run-up to Hogmanay.
Pascal Lardet, Sepa flood duty manager, said: "Some very high river levels are forecast for Monday and Tuesday, in particular the Spey and other rivers in the Great Glen and Easter Ross area.
"Levels on the River Tay and other rivers across the Central Highlands will also be high.
"We're likely to see river and surface water flooding impacts across these areas, resulting in disruptions to transport and to communities.
"Flooding of property, infrastructure, roads and the rail network are all possible. We urge everyone to be prepared and be aware.
"If you live or work in the affected areas, or are planning to visit, think about any steps you need to take now to be prepared for flooding impacts - and consider whether your journey is necessary."
The yellow warning of rain and snow on Monday and Tuesday covers central Scotland, Tayside and Fife, Grampian, the Highlands and Western Isles, Edinburgh, West Lothian and Strathclyde including most of Argyll and Bute.
Forecasters warned flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and travel disruption, while fast flowing or deep floodwater is possible, causing a danger to life.