Flood warnings as council prepares for severe weather

Orkney Islands Council is advising that weather conditions from early tomorrow morning, Thursday, could result in coastal flooding in low lying areas close to the sea.

As a precautionary measure, some limited temporary flood defences are to be set up in St Margaret’s Hope. Council staff will monitor the effectiveness of these during the period around high water late tomorrow morning.

Householders in low-lying areas are advised to assess the risk to their own properties. The council is making supplies of sandbags available for collection by property owners in St Margaret’s Hope, St Mary’s, Whitehall in Stronsay, and Stromness.

As well as coastal flooding, overtopping by waves and spray is possible on causeways and exposed roads.

Disruption to ferry and other transport services are also possible. The council advises that people should keep an eye on weather forecasts and to keep in touch with information from Orkney Ferries, from other transport providers and via the Adverse Weather Alerts links on the home page of www.orkney.gov.uk

The risk of snow should also be taken in to consideration when planning travel.