Storm Babet Update - Wednesday 18 October 2023 3.25pm

Published on Wednesday 18 October 2023

We are advised by the Met Office and SEPA that Storm Babet, will bring very challenging conditions for Angus, particularly North Angus, with river levels already high and unprecedented levels of rainfall expected. This is the first red rain warning since 2015, accompanied by an amber warning for wind from the east.

Travel

Police Scotland advice is not to travel unless absolutely essential. The fewer vehicles on the road, the safer everyone will be and the better access for emergency services. People must understand that many roads will be flooded and not marked as closed. Do NOT attempt to drive through flooded roads. We are also expecting more fallen trees to create further hazards.

Schools and School Transport

Schools and Early Years centres will close at lunchtime tomorrow (Thursday 19 October) when school transport will run. Schools will remain closed on Friday as we have to ensure the safety of children, young people, parents, and school staff.

Flooding

The flood defences in place held well at the last flooding event just two weeks ago and we have undertaken some further flood prevention work and debris clearance since then. However, given the unprecedented levels of rain expected, some flooding will occur.

Preparation

Local resilience teams are already preparing to respond to the forecast and will be constantly vigilant as the reality unfolds and we are working closely with our resilience partners including 3rd and voluntary sectors.

As ever, we will be targeting our energies and resources on the areas of greatest need, focusing on preserving life and ensuring the safety of our citizens.

You can find advice on making your own preparations at Ready Scotland, which includes good advice such as charging mobile phones, having torches ready, and securing external items such as trampolines, garden furniture and other items stored outside.

Updates

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