Good news for those hitting the street to celebrate Hogmanay tonight: Edinburgh is expected to be dry and not too windy. Temperatures should be around 6C with a 12mph South Westerley wind.
Even the fog - forecast earlier today by the Met Office - looks like it will relent. The most recent weather report at 6.40pm today, is forecasting good visibility for Edinburgh, with a little mist and drizzle from midnight into the wee, wee hours - so revellers at the Street Party should be able to enjoy the midnight fireworks display from Edinburgh Castle.
Safe and happy
With the big night almost upon us now is a good time to post the official safety advice.
Councillor Steve Cardownie, Festivals and Events Champion for the City of Edinburgh, said:
"Revellers at the Street Party are bound to have a great time, provided they use their common sense and dress for the weather. We'd also encourage them to heed the advice from police and stewards, who will be working extremely hard on the night to make sure everyone enjoys themselves safely.
"Bring any New Year cheer in plastic containers, dress warmly, have fun but be sensible and remember to drink responsibly, look after yourself and your friends and help us bring in 2011 in spectacular fashion at the best New Year's celebrations in the world."
Tips from organisers of Edinburgh's Hogmanay Street Party:
- Follow the instructions on the Edinburgh's Hogmanay Street Party tickets
- Dress for the weather
- Look after each other and arrange a meeting point
- Think about how to get home (free buses are provided)
- Police and stewards are on duty to look after everyone's safety - bags may be searched on entry
- Revellers are encouraged not to bring under-16s to Street Party (events on 30 Dec and 1-2 Jan are for all the family)
- People under the influence of too much alcohol may be refused entry
- No one will get in unless they have an Edinburgh's Hogmanay Street Party ticket
- Don't bring glass (including bottles) or cans into the arena. There will be four pay bars and numerous catering outlets within the Street Party Arena.
- Don't bring alcohol into the Keilidh or Concert in the Gardens. There will be pay bars and catering outlets positioned within the Arenas.
Assistant Chief Constable Mike McCormick, from Lothian and Borders Police, said:
"We want to make sure that everyone enjoys a fun and safe evening this Hogmanay and we have been working with our partners to ensure this happens.
"Around 330 officers and 450 stewards will be on high visibility patrol in the event arena and surrounding area, to address and concerns or answer any queries from revellers.
"Public safety is paramount throughout the Hogmanay celebrations, and as such anyone coming to the street party will not be permitted to bring glass into the arena. Partygoers should also remember that once they have entered the arena, and their ticket has been checked and split, they will not be able to get back in if they choose to leave.
"Finally, we want it to be an evening to remember for all the right reasons and I would ask everyone to be mindful of their own personal safety, and the safety of those around them, so we can create a positive atmosphere for everyone."
David Farquharson, Medical Director, NHS Lothian said:
"The Hogmanay street party is Scotland's best New Year's celebration but it's wise to take a few sensible steps to keep yourself safe and make it a night to remember for all the right reasons.
"Before you set foot outside think carefully about what to wear. Given the recent snowy weather make sure you wear a hat, scarf and gloves, and watch your footing on icy ground.
"Be sensible about how much you drink and bear in mind that alcohol lowers your body temperature. So, pace yourself by having soft drinks as well.
"Finally don't let excessive alcohol result in a trip to A&E. It is crucial that these services are available for those who really require them. If you suffer a minor injury on the night, you can be treated in the Minor Injuries Clinic at Edinburgh's Western General Hospital."
Eric Alexander, Chief Operating Officer, G4S Events said:
"G4S are delighted to be playing their part in ensuring that the world renowned celebrations of Edinburgh's Hogmanay continues to be a must attend event. G4S will have more than 450 stewards and security staff on site during the Hogmanay festivities. We wish all revellers to celebrate the arrival of 2011 in a safe and secure environment."
Culture Minister Fiona Hyslop said:
"Scotland is the place to be for Hogmanay, with preparations well underway for fantastic celebrations in Edinburgh and around the country.
"We may be on course for the coldest December on record, but the world-famous Scottish welcome will be warmer than ever this New Year.
"If you are heading out, make sure you wrap up warm and check details with event organisers as well as weather and travel advice before setting off."