The Western Isles Emergency Planning and Co-ordinating Group has issued advice to
islanders as a storm bears on the islands.
Wind speeds are expected to strengthen late tonight (Friday) and overnight, Storm force 10 levels increasing to violent storm conditions are forecast over Saturday with the winds speeds over 80mph expected in the islands.
Big waves are forming at sea which have the potential to cause danger to life when breaking on the Hebridean coast.
While a weather warning covers all of Scotland, the Hebrides is in line to be hit with the worst of the storm.
The emergency planning group met to assess the the severe weather risk. The multi agency resilience partnership for the Outer Hebrides highlights the hazards issued by the Met Office including the warning that injuries and danger to life could occur from large waves and beach material being thrown onto sea fronts, coastal roads and properties.
The group urges people to take care and drive to the road conditions.
Dangerous coastal conditions can be expected with large waves an additional hazard, especially at causeways.
Islanders are urged to secure any loose debris and the construction industry is advised to secure scaffolding and any lose items on building sites.
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar's Roads team, coastguards and police will be monitoring all causeways.
► Multiple CalMac ferry cancellations affect Western Isles on Christmas weekend
The comhairle would ask family, neighbours and friends living nearby to assist and support elderly and vulnerable people.
Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) is reminding members of the public to take extra care if using candles during any power cuts which occur due to winter storms. In the event of a loss of 999 services, all fire stations will be manned by emergency services.
SSEN has contingency plans in place to deal with any damage the storm may cause to the electricity network. Any customers who lose their electricity supply are urged to contact SSEN on 105 to report damage or highlight neighbours or friends who may need extra help.
Ferry cancellations are inevitable given the dangerous sea conditions forecast and flights to the islands are also likely to face disruption.
The Met Office says some damage to buildings, such as tiles blown from roofs, could happen
Power cuts may occur, with the potential to affect other services, such as mobile phone coverage
There may be disruption to travel by road whilst some roads, bridges and causeways may be closed.
► Multiple CalMac ferry cancellations affect Western Isles on Christmas weekend
Emergency planning group meets as storm approaches Western Isles
20 December 2024
