DRIVERS on Scotland’s roads have been warned to take extra care, with worsening snow and ice overnight leading to vehicles colliding on a motorway

“Multiple crashes” came as Storm Deidre hit Scotland, with police in Dumfries and Galloway saying they had been reported on the M74 between junction 15 Moffat and junction 17 Lockerbie.

The force urged motorists to drive with caution in the area.

The fierce gales resulted in winds of more than 60mph recorded in Tiree and Lerwick, and 1200 homes in the Moray area losing power for a period, with power cuts also recorded in towns in the Borders and East Lothian.

Met Office Amber weather warnings for much of Scotland warned of ice and snow until the early hours of this morning.

The Borders, Dumfries and Galloway, southern parts of Tayside and Fife were expected to be affected.

Police Scotland warned that people should only travel if they consider it necessary.

A statement read: “Winter driving is a question of common sense and all drivers should ask themselves if they really need to travel when conditions are poor.

“No-one should ever place themselves at risk on the road and it may be worth making alternative arrangements such as delaying travel until conditions improve, or using public transport.

“If you are travelling on the roads you should ensure you and your vehicle are adequately prepared for the conditions, making sure you have sufficient fuel and supplies such as warm clothing, food and water in the event you are delayed for several hours.

“Charge your mobile phone and plan your route as well as alternative routes.”

Transport Minister Michael Matheson has warned of possible delays and cancellations on public transport due to the storm, with the Scottish Government’s Resilience Room meeting on Friday.

Matheson said: “I would encourage people in the affected areas to consider whether they need to make their journey.

“Drivers should plan their routes, leave plenty of time, follow Police Scotland travel advice and drive to the conditions.”

The freezing rain and plunging temperatures of Storm Deirdre hit the country on what was a major

pre-Christmas shopping day.

Met Office meteorologist Alex Burkill reported that wind speeds of more than 60mph had been recorded in Tiree in Scotland, Aberporth in Wales and Lerwick in the Shetland Islands.

Burkill said he was aware of snow falling in parts of central Scotland but no official observations were available at that time.