East Lothian Council and our partners have been working hard to respond to the challenges arising from the storm which battered eastern Scotland on Friday night and into Saturday morning.
Power supplies
While many householders who were without power have had supplies restored, we are aware that some properties are still without power. Scottish Power Energy Networks advise that they are working to restore supplies as soon as possible.
The latest information provided to the council suggests there are still some customers without supply in the following areas: Oldhamstocks, Thurston, Lennoxlove, Markle, Seacliff and between Torness and Cockburnspath. Scottish Power Energy Networks advise they will be in these areas today and can provide food/hot drinks to affected customers requiring support.
They have fitted generators to customers most in need and are also visiting customers to support where individual needs are being identified.
Customers wishing to purchase hot food can do so and Scottish Power Energy Networks will arrange reimbursement to the value of £10 per person per meal. To facilitate this whilst their call centres are extremely busy customers should text the word FOOD to short code 61999 followed by their name, address, the number of people in the property and the name you would like to appear on the cheque.
Contact Centre
The council’s Contact Centre is receiving a high volume of calls but remains open open 24/7 Tel: 01620 827827 Out of office hours - 01875 612818.
Unfortunately the team are unable to deal with calls in relation to council tax and waste services at this time.
Supporting vulnerable people
The East Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership has been 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.
Communication has continued between the council and East Lothian Resilient Communities.
Tree damage
There has been significant tree damage in and around communities, as well as in rural and coastal areas. Amenity teams have been 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.
Building damage
Where it is safe we ask that building owners/residents throughout the county do a visual check of their property for loose slates etc.
Part of Dunbar High Street had been closed to allow property inspections to take place. The High Street is open although an area outside of one building is cordoned off due to concerns about building damage.