Stay indoors! Amber weather warning issued for the Borders as Storm Isha approaches
Last updated 19th Jan 2024
Winds of up to 80mph are expected to cause disruption across the Scottish Borders and North Northumberland this weekend, and into the start of next week.
The Met Office has issued an Amber alert as Storm Isha approaches.
This, according to the forecast service's website, means "there is the possibility of travel delays, road and rail closures, power cuts and the potential risk to life and property".
It's in force between 6pm on Sunday (January 21st) and 9am on Monday.
And comes on top of a Yellow weather warning for rain, which runs from 3pm to midnight on Sunday. This covers an area of the south-western Borders, including Hawick, Newcastleton and the Ettrick Valley. Up to 50mm of rain is forecast.
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The Met Office is advising resident to prepare by ensuring any loose items in gardens are secured, for example trampolines and garden furniture. It is also encouraging people to stay indoors as much as possible during the warning period.
It says: "Very strong southwesterly winds will develop widely across Northern Ireland, western parts of England, Wales and the southern half of Scotland during Sunday evening. Gusts will frequently reach 50-60 mph, perhaps 70 mph at times in a few locations and, along exposed coastal stretches 80 mph is possible at times.
"During the early hours of Monday winds will turn westerly and affect a wider area of southern Scotland and northern England, before easing through the morning."
Scottish Borders Council says additional resources are being drafted in to help with any clean-up.
A spokesperson said: "A multi-agency emergency response group will be stood up throughout the Amber warning period to manage any council and partner responses as required.
"Additional council resources and contractors will be in place and on standby to assist, for example clearing fallen trees, however only where this does not put staff at risk.
What should I do?
Driving in these conditions can be dangerous, for yourself and other road users. If you must drive, you can do this more safely by taking the following actions; drive slowly to minimise the impact of wind gusts, be aware of high sided vehicles/caravans on more exposed roads and be cautious when overtaking, and give cyclists, motorcyclists, lorries and buses more room than usual. Being outside in high winds makes you more vulnerable to injury.
Stay indoors as much as possible. If you do go out, try not to walk, or shelter, close to buildings and trees. In advance of high winds, check for loose items outside your home and secure them. Items include; bins, garden furniture, trampolines, tents, sheds and fences.
If you are on the coast, stay safe during stormy weather by being aware of large waves. Even from the shore large breaking waves can sweep you off your feet and out to sea.
People cope better with power cuts when they have prepared for them in advance. It’s easy to do; consider gathering torches and batteries, a mobile phone power pack and other essential items.
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