Be prepared, says emergency group, as storm approaches

The multi-agency Orkney Local Emergency Co-ordinating Group (OLECG) is advising the community to be prepared for severe weather conditions.

The group met today in response the severe weather conditions forecast to hit Orkney tomorrow.

Chief Inspector Gordon Deans, Police Scotland’s area commander for Orkney, and chairman of OLECG, said: “Our aim is to ensure that key agencies are prepared for eventualities linked to the severe weather conditions Orkney is likely to experience.

“Given the strength of the winds forecast, disruption and timetable changes are also likely on internal and external ferry routes. Our advice is to keep an eye on weather forecasts and keep in touch with transport providers,” he said.

“As the forecast stands, exposed coastal roads and causeways could be affected by spray and possible over-topping by waves. There is a high likelihood that the Churchill Barriers could be closed, particularly around midday when wind and tides are forecast to peak.”

People are advised to make other arrangements if possible and to follow the @OIC_Roads and @OrkneyPolice Twitter feeds for updates on barrier conditions.

Chief Inspector Deans added: “With strong winds, there is always the possibility that some homes may be affected by a loss of power. In those circumstances, we would ask friends, family and neighbours to keep an eye on people who may be experiencing problems as a result.

“We would ask that people ensure that anything that could be blown about is safely stowed away or tied down – strips of plastic or polythene, for instance, can cause power cuts if they get wrapped around power lines.

“People in Orkney are well used to weather conditions of this kind and, as ever, we recommend taking the common sense precautions required when strong winds are forecast.”