The teams working tirelessly to clear a major Highland trunk road of fallen trees have released pictures highlighting the scale of the task they face.
Fergus Ewing has contacted transport minister Fiona Hyslop in response to a number of questions Highlanders have raised over the emergency's handling.
The section between Fort Augustus and Invergarry is the second stretch north of Fort William to be closed by fallen trees on Wednesday.
Officers are also still appealing for witnesses and dash-cam footage in connection with the two-car crash at Invergloy at around 5pm on December 24.
Dramatic pictures highlighting the impact Storm Gerrit is having on the Highlands' road network have been released by Bear Scotland.
Nairn County FC's annual Christmas Dip attracted more than 70 swimmers and raised over £350 for Team Hamish and Mikeysline.
In an update at 4.15pm, Traffic Scotland said disruption was "easing" following recovery of the vehicles from the crash scene near Blair Atholl.
Traffic Scotland has advised drivers to use alternate routes following the crash near the House of Bruar.
Gales force winds up to 80mph are set to batter parts of the Highlands after the Met Office issued a yellow alert ahead of Storm Gerrit.
Bus replacement services are being organised from December 27, but these are still being sourced and passengers are advised to check their journeys.
Police have appealed for witnesses after a "serious" two-car crash on the A82 left seven people in hospital.
The new Met Office warnings cover Boxing Day morning and much of December 27.
A city café repeatedly targeted by bigots in recent months has vowed to fight their hate with love after they were targeted again at Christmas.
Fundraising drives to enable folk to access a famous beauty spot and news that a new railway line was soon to be operational also feature.
A magical Highland pantomime which is winning rave reviews was one of 11 productions in the country to benefit from funding from a major organisation.
Speed restrictions will be in force on all Highland lines until 9am on Christmas Eve amid ongoing Met Office weather warnings.
The Highlands' newest railway station is already one of its busiest, delighted transport chiefs have revealed.
The alert for wind is one of two new warnings issued. Heavy rain is also being forecast on Saturday, with the gales on Sunday into Christmas Day.
Inverness Town House has a new tenant after Hitrans moved its head office into the iconic building's upper floor.
Traffic is moving again following an earlier closure caused by a lorry fire south of Blair Atholl.
