GLASGOW escaped the worst of the winter weather today but freezing rain and ice are expected to create treacherous conditions overnight.

The predicted white-out has not materialised in the city, even though other parts of Scotland are experiencing severe conditions.

Forecasters had predicted morning rush-hour snow showers across the country, including Glasgow and the West.

The Met Office issued amber "be prepared" warnings for snow in Strathclyde, the Highlands, Central, Tayside, Fife and Grampian from 3am until 11am, and yellow "be aware" alerts in Orkney, Shetland and Lothian and Borders.

Sleet and snow was forecast to spread after a cold night which saw the mercury plunge to -6˚C.

However, the city remains on a weather alert, as temperatures are expected to plunge below freezing overnight.

A spokesman for the Met Office, said temperatures could drop to -3˚C overnight.

He said: "Showers, with some wintry over higher ground, will slowly die out overnight.

"However, clear spells will develop, leading to a widespread frost."

Conditions today were much worse in the north of Scotland.

Grampian Police said that most routes were open, but warned motorists to take extreme care due to ice.

Snow gates remain closed on the A939 at Tomintoul, Cockbridge and between Corgaff and the Lecht ski centre, as well as on the B974 from Banchory to Fettercairn.

Transport Minister Keith Brown said the multi-agency response team would monitor the situation overnight and offer help.

He said: "So far this week the transport network and the public have coped well with some testing conditions."

rebecca.gray@ heraldandtimes.co.uk