PA MediaEdinburgh’s Hogmanay celebrations have been cancelled due to concerns over “extreme weather”.
Organisers said high winds would force all events taking place on Monday and Tuesday to be scrapped, including a concert in Princes Street Gardens by the rock band Texas.
The city’s street party and fireworks display have also been cancelled on public safety grounds after the Met Office issued yellow warnings for wind and rain on Tuesday.
Wind speeds on Sunday led to the cancellation of the traditional Torchlight Procession, which usually kicks off the Hogmanay events.
Unique Assembly, which runs the festival on behalf of City of Edinburgh Council, said it had taken the decision in the interest of public safety.
The firm said ticketholders would be contacted with instructions on how to claim refunds.
They said: “We have unfortunately been unable to continue with preparations and necessary set-up for Edinburgh’s Hogmanay outdoor events due to extreme weather and forecast conditions.
“Therefore, for safety reasons we, along with our event partners, have taken the difficult decision to cancel all outdoor events.
“We know that this will be hugely disappointing to all hoping to celebrate Hogmanay in Edinburgh and that people travel from around the world to be here at the home of Hogmanay.”
Indoor events, including the Idlewild concert at the Assembly Rooms and candlelit concert at St Giles’ Cathedral, are scheduled to go ahead as planned.
Those taking place on New Year’s Day are also still slated to take place.
City of Edinburgh Council leader, Jane Meagher, said: “I know that, like me, many people will be very disappointed. This decision was not taken lightly, however with the ongoing adverse weather condition, public safety must be our number one priority.
“Please make sure you stay up-to-date with the weather and transport on social media.”
The Met Office yellow rain and snow warning extends from central Scotland to the north of the country.
Forecasters said the weather warnings could lead to difficult driving conditions, disruption to public transport, power outages and homes being cut off.
Transport Scotland said restrictions on use of some bridges may come into force over the next 24 hours.
Justice Secretary Angela Constance is also due to lead a meeting of the Scottish government’s resilience room later.
Ch Supt David Robertson said: Cancelling such an event is a difficult decision for the organisers, but public safety takes priority, so we fully support this decision.”
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