Environment

Households whose bin collections have been missed due to disruption from the recent heavy snows & gales have been given an update by Highland Council.

Wick weather watcher Keith Banks sent in a report on the gale force winds experienced across the far north this morning with Storm Isha.

The red warning, which was issued shortly before midnight, covers areas around the Moray Firth.

The amber warning will remain in place until 6am on Monday.

The public are being warned to prepare for a 12-hour spell of 'very strong, damaging winds'.

The Scottish Government has published its Marine Science and Innovation Strategy aiming to realise the full potential of the marine environment.

The village of Watten woke up today to the sight of towering peaks of ice and snow along with cleared streets thanks to selfless volunteers.

The Met Office issued a Yellow Warning for icy surfaces that may cause issues for motorists and pedestrians in Caithness today and tomorrow.

The force has also advised against travelling between south Highland and north Highland as many key routes remain blocked by drifting snow.

Wick-based weather pundit Keith Banks reports on the current wintry blast across the far north dubbing it the 'Ogre from the Arctic'.

Police confirm 'multiple' vehicles are stuck in the snow on the A9 north of Helmsdale and have warned that it is unclear when conditions will improve.

A man living on a side road near Dunnet says he and his neighbours are trapped by heavy snowfall.

'Several vehicles' have become stranded on the busy A9 trunk road due to heavy and drifting snow, Traffic Scotland has warned.

Police have urged motorists to take extra care, after heavy snow and drifting left some roads in such poor condition even ploughs have had trouble.

"Do you really need to travel?", Highlanders have been asked amid a heightened amber snow alert and Met Office warnings of "significant" fresh totals.

The Met Office has just issued an update to its Amber Warning for today and predicts more snow for Friday with possible drifts.

A heightened amber warning has been issued amid forecasts of even heavier snowfalls and drifting snow.

Avalanche risks on Highland peaks are now "considerable", mountain-goers have been warned in the wake of heavy snowfall.

Clear skies, freezing air and snow-capped hills – a perfect chance to explore quiet Highland roads by bike in the off-season

There are multiple closures of work places and educational establishments across Caithness due to the heavy snowfall today (Tuesday, January 16).