The number of coronavirus cases has seen another major jump by 2,464 overnight as the new strain of the virus continues to rapidly spread.
The latest Scottish Government statistics show that 15.2% of all tests came back positive.
It comes after Nicola Sturgeon confirmed she would be recalling Parliament early tomorrow afternoon due to the rapidly worsening situation.
The First Minister said that restrictions 'even tighter' than the current Level 4 measures couldn't be ruled out at her last briefing on December 30.
A Scottish Government spokesperson said: “The recent, rapid increase in covid cases in Scotland, driven by the new variant of the virus, is a very serious concern. The even steeper rises and severe pressure on the NHS that is being experienced in some other parts of the UK is a sign of what may lie ahead in Scotland if we do not take all possible steps now to slow the spread of the virus, while the vaccination programme progresses.
"The First Minister has therefore asked that Parliament be recalled from recess on Monday afternoon to allow her to make an urgent statement on further measures to supress transmission. This will come after a meeting of the Cabinet on Monday morning. The Education Recovery Group will also meet on Monday.
“The strong message remains people should stay at home as much as possible and avoid non-essential interaction with others."
