TEMPERATURES plummeted to as low as minus 18C in Scotland early yesterday morning as Stormy Darcy brought extreme conditions across the country.

Bus and rail travel was disrupted, with an amber weather warning in place for much of the central belt until 9pm last night.

ScotRail reported delays due to staff struggling to get to work, while Transport Scotland urged care following a number of accidents.

Speaking on Good Morning Scotland yesterday, Transport Scotland manager Stein Connolly said: “We had 146 gritters out last night. All the trunk roads are open, but there are some places where it’s just passable. There has been a couple of accidents – police are working to get these clear, but it’s maybe better to leave it until a safer point in the day [to travel].”

Roads over higher routes were particularly expected to be affected by the snow.

STV weatherman Sean Batty reported that Braemar in Aberdeenshire had record levels of snow.

In a tweet, he said: “Now recording about 70cm of snow lying in Braemar.

“Record we hold for Braemar is 68cm back in 2001, so looks like that’s gone.

“We’re not going to stop there either, still more to come tonight and tomorrow. Stay safe.”