EAST Lothian residents are being told by police to stay off the roads as the county received a rare amber warning of snow for this evening (Wednesday).

The amber 'be prepared' warning is the second most serious warning the Met Office uses and comes as heavy and persistent snow is forecast for much of south and central Scotland.

Police Scotland is advising drivers in East Lothian and neighbouring counties to avoid travelling on the roads this evening, following the warning by the Met Office of severe weather between 9pm tonight and 5am tomorrow.

Areas affected are East Lothian, Dumfries and Galloway, Edinburgh, Midlothian, Scottish Borders, West Lothian, East Ayrshire, East Renfrewshire, North Lanarkshire, South Ayrshire and South Lanarkshire.

The warning has been issued as a result of severe snow showers forecasted for these areas overnight.

Police advise that anyone who travels in these areas tonight is likely to experience severe delays of several hours or more.

The Met Office warns that there is a risk that some vehicles and passengers could become stranded, while delays or cancellations are likely to rail and air travel.

Some rural communities are likely to become cut off and power cuts are probable. Other services, such as mobile phone coverage, may also be affected.

Congestion caused by vehicles may restrict emergency, recovery or winter maintenance vehicles from providing essential assistance or from clearing roads, police added.

Drivers of HGVs should drive with extreme caution and be aware that they may be requested to park at a suitable position by the police.

Chief Superintendent Stewart Carle, head of Road Policing, said: "Weather conditions over the last few days have been extremely challenging and this forecast of even more extreme conditions over the next day or so in these areas mean that we have to advise drivers to avoid travelling and, if they do, to expect severe delays of several hours or more.

"We urge people to think very seriously as to whether their journey is really necessary and is worth the risk and, if they decide they really have to travel, to be fully prepared to be self-resilient. If you need medication, for example, ensure you have it with you.

"No one should ever place themselves at risk on the road and it may be worth considering postponing your journey or 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.

"Listen to media broadcasts, especially local radio, and visit the Traffic Scotland website."

The warning comes as many drivers were trapped on the M74 in Dumfries and Galloway all night last night due to severe snow.