Section of A9 likely to be closed for 'several hours yet'
The road between Helmsdale and Dunbeath remains closed, as high winds and drifting snow are currently making the route "impassable."
Last updated 18th Jan 2024
Police are warning those planning on travelling across certain areas of the Highlands to avoid doing so as snowy conditions continue to batter the North of Scotland.
The A9 between Helmsdale and Dunbeath remains closed, as high winds and drifting snow are currently making the road conditions "impassable."
After multiple drivers became stranded earlier today, Police now say the stretch of road has almost been cleared of all stranded vehicles, but is likely to remain shut for several hours yet.
Other road closures are also in place, including the A836 and the A897.
At 4:25pm, a Police Scotland spokesperson said: "The A9 between Helmsdale and Dunbeath remains closed due to high winds and drifting snow making the road conditions impassable.
"Police Scotland and Bear Scotland resources have been in attendance in the area of Berriedale for several hours, assisting motorists who had become stranded.
"This stretch of road has almost been cleared of all stranded vehicles but is likely to remain closed for several hours yet.
"The Snow Gates located at Helmsdale and Dunbeath have been closed and will remain closed until the road conditions show signs of improvement.
"There are other road closures in the area too due to snow, these are as follows;
"A836 between Melvich and Durness
"A897 Strath Halladale Road, between Melvich and Helmsdale
"A836 Altnaharra Road, between Tongue and Lairg
"B9176 Struie Road, between Evanton and Ardgay
"For any motorist wishing to travel between South Highland and North Highland areas using the road network then it is recommended that they consider avoiding travel at this time and make alternative arrangements.
"There are no estimated timescales at this time for when these roads are likely to be opened again."
Highland Council have also published a map of current road closures across North Highland.
This does not include the A9, as it is managed by Bear Scotland.