CAUSEWAYS COULD BE CLOSED THIS EVENING MORE WEATHER WARNINGS FROM THE POLICE AND PARTNER AGENCIES Following reports of an amber weather alert (be prepared) for the Highlands, the Western Isles and Orkney and a yellow weather alert (be aware) for Shetland, Police and partner agencies are reminding the public to be vigilant of severe gales and storm force winds, with gusts in excess of 80mph from midnight tonight until 09:00 hours tomorrow morning (05 December 2013). The winds are predicted to be strong enough to cause interference to the transport network. In addition, high seas will have the potential to cause wave overtopping in coastal areas. There are warnings of localised flooding along with surface water on roads with a strong possibility of disruption to public transport. Those in the Western Isles are also advised of the potential for causeways to close for unknown periods this evening and tomorrow and to regularly check partner agency websites and listen to radio reports for further updates. Heavy rain, and in some areas snow, will cross the region early on Thursday 05 December accompanied by gale or severe gale force westerly winds. There may also be wave and spray overtopping in exposed coastal areas throughout North West Scotland, the Western Isles, Orkney and along the west coast during the early part of Thursday morning. SEPA will continue to monitor the situation and would encourage the public to check the SEPA website for active flood warnings. Members of the public should call SEPAs Floodline on 0845 988 1188, for the most up to date information on their area. Superintendent Stevie Mackay said: With the impending spell of severe weather we are due to experience this evening and into tomorrow, I would encourage members of the public not to travel unless it is necessary and have provisions in their homes for possible power cuts. If travel is essential the public should avoid exposed or coastal areas where gusts could cause significant harm to individuals. There are higher risks associated with the times of high tide, which vary across the region. Those travelling on causeways or low lying coastal roads should listen to local radio to keep informed as to whether there are any road closures. Taking measures to secure items outside properties such as garden furniture and scaffolding, and checking in on elderly neighbours to ensure they have all the necessary provisions is also encouraged. Partner agencies across the Highlands and Islands are meeting regularly to ensure appropriate response arrangements have been considered and are in place.” For updates on weather alerts, travel and flood warnings the public are advised to listen to local radio and to visit the following websites for the most up to date information: metoffice.gov.uk/public/weather/warnings/ floodline.sepa.org.uk/floodupdates/ transportscotland.gov.uk/
Posted on: Wed, 04 Dec 2013 20:49:21 +0000
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