Overnight wind speeds in excess of 80mph have presented significant challenges throughout East Lothian.
While winds have dropped and the situation is expected to slowly improve as the day progresses, conditions remain challenging with a yellow weather warning in place and temperatures anticipated to get colder.
The council and partners worked through the night to ensure a co-ordinated response in support of local residents, with a further meeting of the Severe Weather Emergency Multi Agency Group having taken place on Saturday morning.
Tree damage
There has been significant tree damage in and around communities, as well as in rural and coastal areas – please take care both on foot and whilst driving. We would recommend staying away from woodland areas in case of any unstable trees. John Muir Country Park near Dunbar has been particularly affected.
Amenity teams are out and about to lead on the clear-up but given the large number of fallen trees on public land and highways, it will take quite some time to clear. We are grateful to people, including local people who may have fallen trees on their land, for their patience and understanding.
Teams are also out and about checking for any debris or building damage. There have been some reports of fallen chimney pots and slates, particularly on Dunbar High Street.
Roads and transport
The A1, operated by BEAR Scotland, remains closed between Thistly Cross and Abbotsview with efforts being made to clear the road and a further update will be provided when it is safe to re-open.
East Lothian Council Road Services are working hard to clear local roads. We are particularly grateful for the support of landowners who are able to safely remove trees which have fallen from their land in order to help keep roads clear.
There may still be disruption to public transport – please check with operator before travelling.
Power supplies
A number of properties in eastern and hillfoot areas of the county are still without power. Utility companies are working to restore supplies as quickly as possible although it may be later in the day until householders are back with power.
We are aware that some telecare service customers are without mains electricity and relying on battery power. We are contacting people affected to check that they are OK and whether any additional support is required.
Supporting vulnerable people
The East Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership is supporting the most vulnerable people in our communities to check they are safe and well and providing assistance where needed.
We are also grateful to people for their support in checking on neighbours, friends and family who may be vulnerable or require some help.
With temperatures expected to drop later, householders are advised to stay warm and stay safe.
Contact Centre
The Council’s Contact Centre is receiving a significant number of calls – please get in touch if you are experiencing an emergency situation and our teams will be on hand to assist.
The Contact Centre is open 24/7 Tel: 01620 827827 Out of office hours - 01875 612818.
Recycling Centres
These have re-opened on Saturday morning but please take care when travelling.
We are grateful to people for their patience and understanding.