On November 24, 2024, the Queensferry Crossing experienced a closure due to ice accumulation on the suspension cables, caused by Storm Bert. This closure lasted for about 15 hours, with one vehicle sustaining a cracked windscreen. Despite criticisms about the bridge’s resilience, it was designed to be durable and easy to maintain, with features such as baffle barriers to deflect wind gusts.
While the previous Forth Road Bridge often had to close for high winds, the Queensferry Crossing has largely resolved this issue. However, a new problem emerged with ice accumulation on the cables. Sensors have been installed to detect ice, and an automated barrier system diverts traffic to the Forth Road Bridge when necessary.
The ice issue is a challenging one, as icing on suspension cables is common in northern latitudes. Technical solutions such as vibrating the cables or using chemical de-icers are still experimental and may not completely prevent ice accumulation. The unique combination of weather conditions makes it difficult to predict and prevent ice buildup on the bridge.
Critics of the Queensferry Crossing closures fail to acknowledge the efforts made to address safety concerns and provide alternative routes for traffic. While the closures are inconvenient, they are necessary to ensure the safety of drivers and prevent accidents caused by falling ice. As climate change leads to more extreme weather events, the challenge of managing ice accumulation on bridges like the Queensferry Crossing will continue to be a priority for engineers and authorities.
Overall, the Queensferry Crossing remains an important infrastructure project in Scotland, designed to withstand various challenges and provide a reliable transportation link across the Forth. As technology and research progress, solutions to issues like ice accumulation may become more feasible, but for now, the focus is on ensuring the safety and functionality of this crucial bridge.