Schools closed as Storm Otto hits the North and North East of Scotland
It's the first storm to be named this winter.
Last updated 17th Feb 2023
Gale force winds have sparked major disruption across the country today as schools are shut and many homes remain without power.
The storm, the first to be named this winter, has been labelled Otto by the Danish Meteorological Institute (DMI) and is expected to bring disruption to travellers across northern areas of the UK.
Winds of around 80mph have been felt in most parts, with Highland and Islands Weather saying a 101mph gust was recorded in Invergordon this morning.
30,000 across Aberdeenshire, Highland and Moray remain without electricity and some could be without power until Sunday.
"Good progress" made on fixing power issues
Scottish & Southern Electricity Networks say 10,000 properties have now had their power restored.
SSEN Distributions Operations Director said: "Following the significant and continued impact of Storm Otto on our electricity distribution network in the north of Scotland, our engineers have been out since first light this morning to restore power to our customers.
"Despite the widespread nature of the storm, coupled with ongoing adverse weather conditions and challenges with access, our teams have made good progress restoring power to homes impacted. With wind speeds expected to subside from around midday, we expect to make significant progress throughout the course of today.
"However, due to the extent of damage, some customers are likely to remain off supply for over 48 hours. We’re working closely with our resilience partners to support local efforts as our teams work to reconnect supplies across our network area.
"I’d like to reassure our customers we’re doing everything we can to restore power as quickly as possible. I’d encourage anyone who may need additional support to contact our dedicated teams on the power cut helpline, 105."
Highland Council have confirmed the various schools and nurseries which are closed today.
Closures have also been confirmed by Aberdeenshire Council as Storm Otto hits the North East
Four schools in Moray have also been affected by the weather.
ScotRail have outlined to customers to expect disruption on Scotland's railway.