Flood alert issued

A coastal flooding alert has been issued for Orkney by the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) Floodline Service.

According to SEPA, a combination of strong wind and large waves pose a risk of flooding from waves and spray overtopping in areas exposed to the east. The greatest risk is around times of high water — midnight and midday, tomorrow, Wednesday.

The agency has urged folk to remain vigilant in a statement issued this afternoon, Tuesday.

“Remember, it is your responsibility to take actions which help protect yourself and your property,” the statement said.

“Advice and information is also available through Floodline on 0345 9881188.”

SEPA say that the flood alert will be in force until further notice.

A flood warning, which is a higher grade of flooding signal, has also been issued specifically for the area around the Churchill Barriers.

According to SEPA, the risk at the barriers is particularly high around the period two hours either side of the high tides on Wednesday at 2.15am and 3pm, as well as the early hours of Thursday morning.

For updates on whether the barriers are closed or open, you can follow https://twitter.com/OIC_Roads