The Met Office has upgraded its weather warning from yellow to amber as Glasgow prepares for another day of heavy snow and travel misery.

Traffic Scotland has warned of a “high risk of disruption” as Police Scotland also issued a stage-three warning for the city and its surrounding areas.

In effect from 7am to 10pm on Friday, the Met Office warning said: “Snow showers will become heavier and more frequent early on Friday and will continue on and off through the day.

“One or two spells of more persistent, heavy snow seem quite likely, although amounts will vary from place to place.

“A gradual improvement seems likely during the late evening.

“Travel delays on roads are likely, as are public transport cancellations.

“In some places vehicles may become stranded.

“There is a chance of power cuts, while services such as mobile phone coverage may be affected.

“Some rural communities may be cut off.”

The Evening Times understands heavy snow in Cumbernauld has seen drivers forced to abandon their cars in the town’s Airdrie Road.

Glasgow Times:
The scene in Cumbernauld early this morning

A spokeswoman for Police Scotland’s Road Policing said: “For the duration of this updated warning, there is a high risk of disruption for road journeys and there is a high likelihood of the conditions for travel being very poor.

“Those heading out on the roads should be aware of these risks; ensure you have a fully-charged phone, warm clothing, and leave extra time for your journey.”  

Transport Minister Humza Yousaf said: “The Scottish Government’s Resilience operation is up and running and colleagues are in close contact with TS Resilience and MART teams and the Police Scotland multi-agency response team in Glasgow, as we have been throughout the night.

READ MORE: Shocking moment runaway lorry causes carnage in icy conditions near Airdrie

“Motorists should consider avoiding peak journey times and whether they can delay or avoid travelling.

“Our winter maintenance teams are continuing to prepare the trunk road network and stand ready to react to changing conditions, treating roads and helping motorists where required.

“My advice, as always, is to take extra time to plan your journey, listen to police advice and drive to the conditions.

“Motorists can use the Traffic Scotland mobile website - my.trafficscotland.org - to get the latest information on the move, as well as check the @trafficscotland twitter page for updates.

“If you’re travelling by rail, ferry or air, please check with your operators to make sure your service has not been affected by the conditions.”