Aberdeen Grinds to Halt as Heavy Snow and Thundersnow Trigger Widespread Disruption

Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire are navigating major disruption after a severe winter storm. Heavy snowfall and rare thundersnow hit the region on November 20, 2025. The Met Office issued a yellow weather warning for snow and ice.

Dozens of schools were forced to close and major transport routes were shut down. Council gritting teams worked through the night, but warned that resources were limited. Police advised against all but essential travel.

School Closures and Transport Chaos Following Storm

Over forty schools in Aberdeen city were closed or delayed. This included major academies like Harlaw and Hazlehead. In Aberdeenshire, the impact was even greater with more than sixty schools shut.

Key roads, including a section of the A90, were closed due to hazardous conditions. Police Scotland confirmed the closure between Cleanhill and Stonehaven. Three early morning flights from Aberdeen Airport were cancelled.

Emergency services responded to a serious crash on Wellington Road. A car and a pedestrian were involved. Two people were taken to the hospital for treatment.

Council Response and Winter Preparedness Tested

Aberdeen City Council activated its winter response plan. Gritters were deployed from 7pm the previous evening and again before dawn. The council’s £1.57 million winter budget was immediately put to the test.

According to Reuters, similar weather events have strained public services across the UK this season. The council acknowledged it could not treat every street at once. Residents were urged to exercise extreme caution on untreated surfaces.

Memorial Service Honors Football Legend Denis Law

Amid the weather chaos, the city paused to remember its famous son. A memorial service for football legend Denis Law was held at St Machar Cathedral. The service drew icons from the sporting world, including Sir Alex Ferguson and Gary Neville.

Law, a Ballon d’Or winner, is joint top scorer for Scotland’s men’s team. His daughter, Diana, expressed how touched the family was by the tribute. The Denis Law Legacy Trust continues his work supporting young people in Aberdeen.

Looking Ahead: Recovery and a Lasting Legacy

The Met Office forecast suggests sleet and snow will continue into Friday. Temperatures are expected to gradually rise, offering some relief. Clean-up operations will continue as conditions improve.

The dual events of the storm and the memorial highlighted the city’s character. Community spirit and resilience were on full display. The legacy of local heroes continues to inspire future generations.

Aberdeen begins its recovery from significant snow disruption, a testament to the community’s strength in facing natural challenges and honoring its history simultaneously.

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What areas were most affected by the snow?

The city of Aberdeen and the wider Aberdeenshire region saw the heaviest impact. Dozens of schools were closed and major roads, including the A90, were shut down due to the conditions.

What is thundersnow?

Thundersnow is a rare weather phenomenon where thunder and lightning occur during a snowstorm. It was reported across parts of Aberdeenshire during this weather event.

How many schools closed due to the weather?

Over forty schools in Aberdeen and more than sixty in Aberdeenshire were closed or had delayed openings. The widespread closures significantly disrupted education and family routines.

What was the purpose of the Denis Law memorial service?

The service at St Machar Cathedral was held to honor the life and legacy of the football legend. It brought together family, friends, and sporting icons to celebrate his contributions to football and his hometown.

How did the council respond to the snow?

Council gritting teams were deployed throughout the night and early morning. They focused on primary routes but warned that they could not cover every street immediately.