Wind speeds in excess of 80mph on Friday night and into Saturday presented significant challenges throughout East Lothian.

While winds have eased, conditions remain challenging with a yellow weather warning for ice and snow is in place into Sunday morning. 

The council and partners worked are continuing 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.

Temporary barriers remain in place on Dunbar High Street to allow for inspections of properties that may have sustained damage in the strong winds. Inspections will continue tomorrow on Sunday and into Monday and we thank local residents and businesses for their patience.

Roads and transport

The A1 has re-opened.

East Lothian Council Road Services have been working hard to clear local roads. Some local roads, particularly in rural areas, may still have debris but most are passable with care.

There may still be disruption to public transport – please check with operator before travelling. There are multiple reports of obstructions and damage to overhead wires across the network. All services cancelled for the remainder of Saturday on the East Coast Main Line between Edinburgh and Newcastle and also Edinburgh-North Berwick.

Power supplies

A number of properties in eastern and hillfoot areas of the county have been without power into Saturday. 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 have been without mains electricity and relying on battery power. We have been 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 re-opened on Saturday morning but please take care when travelling.

We are grateful to people for their patience and understanding.

Published: Saturday, 27th November 2021