Efforts have been made to keep main routes clear

Engineers from Scottish Hydro-Electric have been working to restore power.

More than 200 schools in Aberdeenshire, Aberdeen, Orkney, Shetland, and the Highlands were shut on Wednesday and Shetland schools were due to stay closed on Thursday.

The weather also caused travel problems, with road, ferry and air services affected.

In Shetland, all flights to and from Sumburgh Airport were cancelled, as were Northlink's Wednesday night ferry sailings between Shetland and Aberdeen.

Police said some side roads were blocked and advised motorists not to travel unless absolutely necessary.

Grampian Police said low temperatures and blizzards had left roads badly affected by snow and ice.

'Non-essential journeys'

A spokesperson said: "We have not received any reports of road closures, but generally driving conditions are difficult and hazardous."

The force said that many roads, particularly in exposed areas, were only passable with care.

"Motorists should refrain from undertaking non-essential journeys," said the spokesperson.

"Snowploughs are operating on the main routes and motorists requiring to travel are advised to use them and avoid minor roads where possible.