Storm-force winds expected to return tomorrow

Shetland is bracing itself for further bad weather after hurricane winds of up to 100mph battered the isles on Christmas Day leaving thousands of homes without power.

Storm force winds are expected to be hit some parts tomorrow evening, bringing squally, blustery showers which could turn wintry with sleet, hail and possibly thunder.

The Met Office is warning much of Scotland will be lashed by the unforgiving weather conditions, which could see gusts reach up to 80mph in parts of the country.

Severe gales brought unwanted festive disruption last week with around 5,500 homes enduring hours of darkness at Christmas. Engineers had to be drafted in from the mainland to help deal with the disruption and restore supplies. Today has seen another cut in supply with 200 customers in Bressay affected for a time.

Police said they had dealt with over 16 calls from across the isles regarding damage. A large tree was blown over in Scalloway, and properties had their roofs damaged in Brae, Walls, Mossbank, Frakkafield and Weisdale.

There were reports of trailers being blown on to the road as well as damage to electricity poles and street lights. Vehicles and windows were also hit by blowing debris and the large Christmas tree at King Harald Street was also blown over in the harsh conditions.

Meanwhile the coastguard was notified after 12 salmon cages, containing fully-grown salmon ready for harvesting, broke away from the south of Unst. They were last seen over 30 miles east of the isle.

Following tomorrow’s expected blast conditions will remain wintry on Thursday despite some sunny or clear spells. Early north-westerly gales will ease by the afternoon with cloud and rain arriving later.

On Friday it will be mainly dry with sunny or clear spells. Winds will strengthen on Hogmanay as rain spreads over the isles.

Despite all the recent disruption brought by the weather, NorthLink’s ferry services have been continuing, although tomorrow’s sailings are currently under review.