The East Lothian Multi-Agency Severe Weather Group is closely monitoring the forecast for days ahead.
Storm Dudley
Storm Dudley is expected to affect the UK on Wednesday night and Thursday, bringing a period of very strong and disruptive winds.
The Met Office has issued an amber warning for wind, which will be in place from 4pm on Wednesday until midnight. It covers much of northern England, central and southern Scotland including East Lothian.
This warning will then be reduced to yellow only until 6am on Thursday. Timings are subject to change which would be advised on the Met Office website.
Forecasted winds of around 70mph have the potential to cause damage and there is a likelihood of travel disruption.
Local householders are advised to take basic precautions such as moving rubbish/recycling bins, garden furniture, and hanging baskets and securing play equipment such as trampolines to ensure they do not cause damage to cars or property if blown over.
East Lothian Council’s emergency planning network is closely monitoring the forecast. A meeting of the East Lothian Multi-Agency Severe Weather Group, chaired by East Lothian Council, has already taken place and more will follow as we navigate through this bad spell of weather.
Teams are being readied to deal with any traffic disruption, fallen trees and property damage.
The council’s contact centre is open 24/7 - Tel: 01620 827827 Out of office hours - 01875 612818.
SPEN should be contacted if there are any power cuts: Phone 105
We would advise people to take care if out and about, particularly elderly people and those with mobility issues who may wish to stock up with provisions and stay at home.
Storm Eunice
Following this initial period of bad weather, Storm Eunice is expected to bring further challenging conditions on Friday.
A yellow weather warning for wind will be in place from the early hours of Friday morning until 9pm on Friday evening.
It is also possible that East Lothian will be affected by prolonged snow on Friday morning, including the rush hour. The council will continue to monitor the conditions and respond as necessary, with Roads and Amenities teams on stand-by to help keep roads and streets clear and safe.
Further information
Advice on how to prepare for and deal with severe weather can be found at: https://ready.scot/respond/severe-weather