Severe weather in Shetland - update

Shetland’s Area Commander is urging people living in areas severely affected by snow to stay at home.

Power has been restored to more than 2,500 properties, with 3,800 currently off supply in Voe, Whalsay, Brae, Tumblin, Yell and Unst. All efforts are being made by SSEN to restore supplies however their teams are experiencing extremely challenging conditions. Weather-related travel delays are also restricting SSEN’s ability to send additional operational teams to the islands. For latest updates, visit - https://www.ssen.co.uk/power-cuts-emergencies/

Chief Inspector Stuart Clemenson said: “Meantime I would urge people to stay at home where it is safest given the treacherous conditions outdoors, and find ways to stay as warm as you can. Link in with neighbours, friends and family to ensure they are safe and well, in particular those who are vulnerable, and listen to the local radio or follow social media for updates from Police Scotland and our partners. If you need police help, contact 101 or 999 in an emergency and we will respond as quickly as we can.

“The impact the snow has had in the north of Shetland is unprecedented and local resilience partners are working closely together to identify those who may need additional support and coordinate welfare arrangements.”

Landlines in Gutcher and Burravoe remain down however 999 calls can still be made from any mobile network. For updates visit - https://www.bt.com/help/check-service-status

For the latest weather updates, visit - Weather and climate change - www.metoffice.gov.uk

The Ready Scotland website offers advice on dealing with emergencies including severe weather – visit https://ready.scot/